Northwoods Sporting Journal, June 2024

June. I get up at sunrise and fire up the old Saab that has replaced my truck for the time being. The trunk and back seat are festooned with all the accoutrements of our favorite June activities. There are

Joys of June Green Mountain Report

Lamoille Cty, I am tracing the Winooski River in search of a pull off where I can trek to the sandy soil of the shoreline a couple hundred yard off the road. As I slide down the steep gravely hill, I notice a field

mesh bags for hen-of-thewoods, morels, and chanterelles that I find when fishing the small mountain streams. And a large plastic bag for wild asparagus. As I wander the dirt roads of

of verdant green in the shadows. I bend down to inspect the late blooming ferns and snap off a sample growing close to the root ball. Seems strange that fiddleheads would still be

around, but here in the cool foothills, covered in shade they are thriving. I confirm the concave inner stem, the tightly encircled leaves not yet radiating from the core, and covered by a brown paper-like wrapping, they are indeed fiddleheads. I mark their location and wade into the pool just below the riffles. I can see a small hatch of mayflies

by Bradley Carleton, Charlotte, VT

face. One large inhale and the fly disappears. He is a nice chunky rainbow and I connect with him for a few minutes before bringing him to the net. I smile and ask the Great Spirit if I might be allowed to take

tive bounty, it is imperative that it be shared with those I love.

June also brings excitement for the great Father’s Day Derby, also known as the Lake Champlain International spon -

I confirm the concave inner stem, the tightly encircled leaves not yet radiating from the core, and covered by a brown paper-like wrapping, they are indeed fiddleheads. I mark their location and wade into the pool just below the riffles. I can see a small hatch of mayflies coming off and tie on a creamy brown cahill.

coming off and tie on a creamy brown cahill.

Casting above the riffles and mending my line as I was taught 50 years ago, the fly drifts, spinning in tight circles before being released from the current into the slower pool below. I see the bulky shoulders of a fish rise, barely breaking the sur-

him home to be placed on an antique English bluestone dinner plate, adorned with lemons, fiddleheads, and wild asparagus. As my wife’s car pulls into the dooryard, I hear her car door close, and I light the candle on the table beside the bottle of chardonnay and grin to myself. If I am to be blessed with such na-

sored by Yamaha. After recovering from a hip replacement last year, I will be back as a Weigh Station Captain at Point Bay Marina in Charlotte. I love seeing the excitement of fathers, mothers and families vying for recognition on the posting board. Young people are my favorite. My

(June cont. pg 6)

The author with one of the few derby fish he’s ever caught.

On The Cover

Me & Joe Go Fishing With Hanscom Takeover - Pg 16

June Fly Fishing - Pg 34

Best Trout Lures - Pg 22

Honey Holes Disclosed - Pg 26

Big Bait Big Bass - Pg 24

Camps, Cottages and Land for Sale - Pg 68-70

3. Green Mountain Report - Bradley Carleton

5. Singing Maine Guide - Randy Spencer

7. Early Bird Buck - Camille & Nancy C. Deschene

9. Muzzleloading Afield - Al Raychard

10. A Hiker’s Life - Carey Kish

11. Just Fishing - Bob Leeman

14. Angling, Antlers & Artifacts - Jake Scoville

15. The Bird Perch - Karen Holmes

16. The Adventures Of Me & Joe - Bob Cram

18. Outdoor Sporting Library - Jeremiah Wood

20. Aroostook Woods & Water - Mike Maynard

22. New Hampshire Outdoors - Peter St. James

24. The Gun Cabinet - John Floyd

25. Outdoors In Maine - V. Paul Reynolds

26. Warden’s Words - Kale O’Leary

27. Maine Tails - Jonah Paris

28. Women In The Woods - Erin Merrill

29. On Point - Paul Fuller

31. On The Ridge - Joe Judd

32. Basics Of Survival - Joe Frazier

33. Guns & Ammo: A Guide’s Perspective - Tom Kelly

34. The Maine Woods - Matt LaRoche

35. From Craig Pond - Bob Mercer

36. View From The River - Laurie Chandler

37. Young Blood - Jake Guay

38. Maine Outdoor Adventure - Rich Yvon

39. Old Tales From The Maine Woods - Steve Pinkham

41. Best Bassin’ - Bill Decoteau

42. The Buck Hunter - Hal Blood

43. Northwoods Voyager - Gil Gilpatrick

44. South Of The Kennebec - Stu Bristol

45. Tales Of A Maine Woodsman - Joel Tripp

46. Slipstream - Scott Biron

47. Marsh Island Chronicles - Matthew Dunlap

48. Vermont Ramblings - Dennis Jensen

49. Outdoors In Vermont - Gary Moore

50. Maple Country Outdoors - Ben Wilcox

52. On The Prowl - Justin Merrill

53. Against The Current - Bob Romano

54. Cookin’ With New England’s WildCheff - Denny Corriveau

55. Northwoods Sketchbook - Mark McCollough

56. Question Of The Month - Randall Poulton

58. Cracker Barrel - Homer Spit

59. Kineo Currents - Suzanne AuClair

60. The Back Shelf - Steve Day

65. SAM News - David Trahan

66. The Trail Rider - Dan Wilson

The Sportin’ Journal

The Northwoods Sporting Journal is the Northeast’s most comprehensive and readable monthly outdoor publication. Published at the trailhead of Maine’s sprawling North Woods, the Sporting Journal prides itself on being an independent voice for the region’s outdoor community for more than 28 years. Some of our writers are seasoned and specialized outdoors people who will share their know-how and insights; some of our contributors are simply lifelong outdoor people with interesting stories to tell.

Our aim every month is to capture the essence of Northern New England’s remarkable outdoor heritage by stirring memories, portraying outdoor humor, and sharing experiences and outdoor knowledge. We also keep our readers up to date with late-breaking outdoor news and hard-hitting editorials about fish and wildlife issues.

Anyone who loves to hunt and fish, or simply finds the Great Outdoors a treasured place, is more than likely to find some special connections amid the pages of the Northwoods Sporting Journal.

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All rights reserved, 2024. Written permission must be obtained from the Northwoods Sporting Journal to reprint any part of this publication. Any errors or omissions in ads or editorial matter will be corrected in the next issue of NWSJ. The views and opinions expressed by our monthly columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication.

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The Outdoor Paper For “Maine Folks”

Angling, Antlers & Artifacts - Pg 14 Jake Scoville

Early Bird Buck - Pg 7 by Camille & Nancy Deschene

by Steve Day

The Bird Perch - Pg 15 Karen Holmes

in by Bradley Carleton

An Outdoor Life Well Lived

He was a trout guide in Montana until he was 85. Even then, he didn’t stop guiding because he couldn’t, or because he didn’t still love it. Ray Plewacki Sr. stopped because he wanted more time to fish on his own. And just because his summers were so busy, it didn’t mean that his winters were slack. That’s when he retreated to his home in Little Valley, NY to assume his post as ski instructor at Holiday Valley Ski Resort. Around that time, his son told me that if you happened to be skiing down the mountain behind Ray, you would never guess that he was a man crowding 90.

stories not just with me, but whoever else happened to be in the rotation on a given salmon pool, sitting on the bench with us. He always played down his own roll in these stories but you got the impression there was a lot left unsaid. Like the time he was shot down over the Pa-

Ray Plewacki Sr. on right, with friend, Dr. Bundy.

cific and spent 48 hours in a raft, freezing by night, and broiling by day. Ray was a navy ace flying on the same mission that day with Marine ace, Pappy Boyington of the Black Sheep Squadron. Pappy wasn’t so lucky. Where Ray was rescued by a Navy destroyer,

I took to Ray immediately when I first met him on the Margaree River in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia in the late 1990’s. He explained to me that he was “between seasons” and therefore he was able to take the time to swing the big rod for Atlantic salmon on the storied Margaree. It began a 14-year friendship until his death at age 94, two weeks after we fished together for the last time.

You got to know Ray by degrees, as he let a little bit more out of the bag with each annual meeting. The bag was big. Much of the time, he was sharing his

Pappy was picked up by a Japanese sub and beaten with bats. He spent the remainder of the war in a Japanese prison.

This was by no means the most harrowing experience my new fishing buddy had survived. On a different bench on a different year, I learned that during his student days as a pilot trainee, he fell out of an open cockpit PT-17 Kaydet when his instruc-

The

Singing Maine Guide

by Randy Spencer, Grand Lake Stream, ME

at him, speechless. When Ray got back, his instructor informed him that he never knew he was missing until he landed.

In Shreveport, LA Ray had to land a plane that was on fire, cabin choked with smoke. And in Rochester, NY, his car stalled on a train track during a

of the stream flow, of various objects and where fish seemed likely to lie. He also chronicled which casts were best to use at different times. A “double spey,” for example, might be good with wind in your face. A “snap C” or “snake roll” might work best with the wind at your back.

I learned that during his student days as a pilot trainee, he fell out of an open cockpit PT-17 Kaydet when his instructor went into an unannounced roll. Fortunately, his shute opened and he landed in a farmer’s field in the midwest in a foot of snow...

tor went into an unannounced roll. Fortunately, his chute opened and he landed in a farmer’s field in the midwest in a foot of snow. Ray gathered up his chute and slogged to the farmer’s door. The farmer answered the knock and Ray said, “Could I oblige you for a ride back to the base? I just fell out of a plane.” The farmer looked

blizzard at night only to be T-boned by an oncoming train. “I think I’ve been through three or four cat’s lives,” he once confided. Ray kept a handheldsize notepad in his vest. In it, he made copious notes on everything he was learning about the river and about spey casting. Sometimes, on facing pages, he drew diagrams

Ray tied tube flies into his 90’s and built fly rods that were fished by his customers all over the world. He always guaranteed them for a lifetime, and then would add, “mine, not yours.”

The joy Ray took from fishing was not in catching fish. It was all about who he met on the river. From (Life cont. pg 6)

June

(Cont. from pg 3)

good friend, John Eisenhardt of Ferrisburgh, will be sharing the joyful faces of kids that get credit for landing a respectable laker, salmon, pike, bass or even a 12” plus yellow perch. We will watch their eyes light up as we place the fish on the measuring board and then transfer the trophy to the official scale. We will congratulate them and publicly acclaim their fishing skills to the crowd. This year’s derby will begin at midnight, Saturday, June 15 and run through 4:00pm on Monday, June 17. Point Bay is a 24-hour station which we will open for the first entries at 9:00am Saturday morning. Please note that there are thirteen official weigh-in stations. Charlotte, North Hero, Plattsburgh, and Orwell will be the only 24-hour stations.

If you haven’t yet registered for this annual magical event, do so quickly. Jolley Stores and CocaCola will be offering a chance at a four-person flyin fishing retreat at Berthelot Lake Lodge’s exclusive outpost camp in Quebec.

Life

(Cont. from pg 5)

these meetings, lasting friendships often developed. During his tenure in Montana, he guided Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter both of whom he judged as “way above average fly casters.” Clients brought him to the Swiss and French Alps to continue their ski lessons with Ray. Ray was good company.

In other words, he pretty much embodied the definition of a hale fellow well met. You couldn’t help

Other remarkable prizes include a $10,000 Lake Record reward for any fish that sets a new record in one of the eligible species. There is an abundance of large cash prizes, categories for Juniors 14 years old or younger, “Ladies of the Lake” rewards for top female anglers and the Angler of the Year award. For more details, please go online at www.mychamplain. net If you’re pulling into Point Bay Marina in the middle of the night, “I’ll keep the light on for ya’”

Between the spring of 2022 and fall of 2024, the VT F&W will be stocking a new genetic strain of rainbow trout in twelve waterbodies alongside our traditional strain to evaluate differences in performance. If you catch a stocked rainbow trout during this time from one of the waterbodies listed on the F&W website, check for a missing or “clipped” ventral fin located about halfway along the underside of the fish near the opening or “vent.” To identify each strain, one of their ventral fins will be clipped. Look for the paired fins on the underside of the fish about halfway along its body.

but learn from Ray if you came within his sphere. Perhaps one of his greatest nuggets of wisdom was shared over a shingle fire one morning on the Margaree. “When you’re put on this earth,” he began, “you have an appointment with death. Wherever and whenever that appointment is, you’ll make it.” For a guy who’d fallen out of a plane, been T-boned by a train and shot out of the sky, the aphorism carried some cred. Ray’s appointment came in the upstairs of his

Either the right or the left ventral fin will be missing, indicating which strain you have caught. If the left fin is missing, you’ve caught an Eagle Lake strain. If the right fin is missing, you’ve caught an ErwinArlee strain. Remember to take a photo, then submit your photo showing the clipped fin and report your catch on our online reporting tool . You can also report your catch on your smartphone using our Vermont Outdoors app. VT F&W staff are assessing the differences between the currently stocked ErwinArlee strain and the Eagle Lake strain of rainbow trout. This strain is new to Vermont but has shown promise in other states such as Maine, Michigan, Montana, and many others. While all rainbow trout are the same species, there are many strains with different genetic traits that can impact their performance in our fish culture stations and in the wild. Biologists periodically compare different strains for characteristics that may be more desirable and help enhance opportunities for all anglers to catch stocked trout.

son’s home in Fairfax, VA while he was visiting. He simply went out like a light. A very bright light.

I still fish some of Ray’s flies every year, using one of his rods that he made for me. Sadly, according to Ray’s rules, the warranty on it has run out.

Randy Spencer is a working guide and author. All of his award-winning books are available on Amazon. Reach Randy at randy31@earthlink. net or through www.randyspencer.com

By Camille & Nancy C. Deschene

It was rainy and foggy. I could have stayed in bed, but the last time I did not go hunting in bad weather, I later checked my game cameras and found a big buck had visited my hunting spot, and I was not there.

Early Bird Buck

I looked to the right, through thick brush, I saw another deer, but I didn’t know if it was a doe or a buck. I waited. A doe walked off. Another deer came out in the open. It was a buck!

My heart pounded! I was so excited! I steadied my magna-ported Thompson Contender pistol with a scope, a .35 Remington rifle cartridge...

I sat in my blind from 6 a.m. to 9 a. m. Seeing nothing. Then it stopped raining. The deer started moving shortly after 9. I saw a big doe. She was looking around, feeding. I wondered why she was looking off to her right.

It was chilly. I had my propane heater on in my blind.

My heart pounded! I was so excited! I steadied my magna-ported Thompson Contender pistol with a scope, a .35 Remington rifle cartridge, and my shooting sticks, trying to be quiet while this buck had

June 14th and 15th

Rangeley, Maine

his head down as he was eating.

He didn’t know I was there.. I brought the pistol up, cross hairs on his shoulder, and fired. A broad sideshot. He went right down. I put another shell in my gun and walked down to check him and he was dead.

I put my tag on him and claimed him as mine. I called my wife Nancy and told her, “I got one with a pistol!” I called my friend Billy Hoxie to tell him. Billy said, “Do you need any help?” I said, “No, thank you, I can get him.” I dressed him out and walked back to my vehicle to get my JetSled to drag him out. I’m glad I got up that morning. I am very happy.

• Fly-Fishing Hall of Fame Awards

• Live Auction Benefitting Operation Reboot Outdoors

• Free Fly-Casting and Fly-Tying Clinics And Demos

• Special Clinics Just For Kids!

• Browse Vendor Row, See And Purchase New And Antique Gear, Fly Fishing Ties

• Chat With Fly-Fishing Authors

• And So Much More!

Auction proceeds benefitting: www.rangeleymaine.com

Camille Deschene with his pistol buck.

Repeal the Gun Purchase Waiting Law

Maine’s gun rights advocates, including hunters, sporting good stores, gun show sponsors, sporting camps, guides, shooting sports groups and even the Augusta-savvy Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine (SAM), were caught flat footed by the passage of a controversial law that requires a three -day waiting period for firearms purchases.

David Trahan, executive director of SAM, said as much recently. Trahan, who has proven time and time again, that he knows how to maneuver around the legislative halls in behalf of his 8,000 members, expressed surprise and deep disappointment in Governor Janet Mills, who allowed this law to be enacted without her signature. Trahan, who has been able to work and reason with Mills, forewarned her that the passage of this law, which SAM considers unconstitutional, might well trigger a lawsuit.

Indeed, SAM has already begun to raise $250,000 to underwrite legals fees in this effort to litigate against this new law. Is a gun purchase waiting law unconstitutional? There are about a dozen other states that have a gun purchase waiting

law similar to Maine’s latest gun--control legislation. Although the constitutionality of these gun waiting laws have been challenged, the jury is still out. The U.S Supreme Court has simply refused to hear these cases. Gun rights advocates in Vermont are in the throes of challenging that state’s new gun purchase waiting law. SAM may join Vermont in this legal fight.

There is another way to skin the cat, short of going to court in an expensive legal tussle. There is always the citizen referendum route, which has become more and more common as a way to redress wrongheaded legislative initiatives by Maine’s increasingly progressive, urban-oriented state legislature.

In a citizen referendum, Maine voters could overturn the gun purchase waiting law. It would be, as Trahan concedes, an “uphill climb.” Bringing it to the voters requires the gathering of 67,000 signatures within 90 days of legislative adjournment. And that’s not the end of it. Like the two attempts to ban bear hunting in Maine, in 2004 and 2013 by citizen referendum, there are long, drawn out campaigns in an effort to galvanize public opinion one way

or the other.

Like most worthy endeavors, it takes a person or an organization to lead. Politically, Maine may be a liberal state thanks to its population demographic, but it is a state that has a high incidence of gun ownership and hunters. During the two attempts to ban bear hunting in Maine, the Humane Society of the United States poured $780,000.00 of campaign funds into this state to support the ban but lost anyway.

The pure logistics of gathering the required 67,000 signatures ain’t no easy thing, but an effort with good leadership, led by SAM or some other willing person or organization, could bring this question to the Maine voters come November. This wrong-headed new law is ripe for a challenge, not only because it chips away at Second Amendment privileges and pushes the envelope of constitutionality, but because of the long-term economic harm it imposes upon an important and historic segment of Maine businesses and their future economic vitality.

VPR

The Gun Ban

To the Editor

A mentally ill man kills 18 people in Lewiston. The legislature and congressman Golden say that they want to do something to prevent these sort of mass murders.

Golden wants to ban assault rifles. That was been tried: The sale of assault rifles was illegal in the US from to 1994 to 2004. The ban had no effect on murders or mass shooting. Hundreds of thousands of Mainers own semiautomatic rifles. One Mainer committed mass murder. He could have used a pump

shot gun. Should we ban pump shotguns too?

The legislature debates various additional restrictions on the legal sale of guns. The compromise is a that law-abiding Mainers will need to wait 72 hours after buying a gun before they can possess the gun they bought. (I have no idea where the gun “lives” for those 72 hours.) Everyone agrees this new law would NOT have stopped the Lewiston shooter: The Lewiston shooter owned the murder weapon for months or years before he committed his crimes.

The problem is not guns. The Lewiston shoot-

er was mentally ill and threatening to kill people. His family knew it. Local law enforcement knew it. The Army knew it. NO ONE DID ANYTHING to prevent the atrocity. The family was scared of the shooter, that’s why they called the police. The cops had more important things to do (or so they thought).

The Army was protecting their own.

Will anyone be held accountable?

Is making it harder for me to buy guns the right answer?

Randall

Poulton (Letters cont. pg 40)

The Rage Over Fly Fishing

Someone once said, “Fly fishing is the most fun you can have standing up.” Although a lot of the fly fishing here in Maine takes place sitting in a canoe due to the state’s impressive number of secluded trout ponds, I have to agree. There are few things in the outdoors I would rather be doing.

I got interested in fly fishing in the late 60s. I knew absolutely nothing about it but was fortunate to have a close family friend who did. Over the course of several weeks he instructed me in the basics of proper grip and casting fundamentals, among other important things, telling me more than once “Let the rod do the work. It’s no good just waving your arm or using your wrist. You’ll feel the rod load so when you’re ready to cast pretend you’re hammering a nail. Accelerate to the forward position, stop, let the line go and follow through to the target. Simple. You’ll get it!”

I was most appreciative of his patience and have been grateful ever since, but in time I did

get it. It didn’t take long before fly fishing became a passion and that passion would eventually take me to Alaska, to Labrador and northern Quebec seeking giant brook trout, Atlantic salmon and Arctic char, and to Argentina, to Florida, Costa Rica and other places in the Caribbean for tarpon, bonefish and permit and a long list of other places I probably never would have had the opportunity to visit and enjoy had it not been for my love of casting flies. Fly fishing has been popular as long as I can remember, but of late it seems it has become more popular. I’ve heard tell the rise started with the pandemic when everything outdoors became the thing to do. Articles about fly fishing are posted everywhere on social media and for some fly fishing has become trendy. It amazes me the amount of fly gear some folks have become convinced they need just to catch fish on a fly. Fly fishing is big bucks these days.

According to a study by the Outdoor Foundation the investment in fly fishing gear and accessories will

finding trout fishing waters to fish in solitude. Maine is a big place with lots to offer and some of the not-so-well known waters are just as exciting and productive to fish as the better known ones. The fun is in finding them.

by Al Raychard, Lyman, ME

are not far away from most Mainers. And then there’s fly fishing saltwater. When the stripers arrive it’s big news along the coast and fly fishing the brine is one of the fastest growing segments of the sport.

increase from 3.22 billion dollars in 2023 to 3.35 billion dollar this year at a compound annual rate of

I don’t question COVID had something to do with fly fishing’s rise in popularity, but other demographics no doubt played and are playing a role.

More Baby Boomers are retiring and younger folks are leaving work early and

June is here and for many the fly fishing enthusiasts the season is just getting underway. Yes, fly fishing may be the rage these days and there may be no end in sight but fortunately Maine is big enough and it’s waters diverse enough to handle it. Here’s to hop-

According to a study by the Outdoor Foundation the investment in fly fishing gear and accessories will increase from 3.22 billion dollars in 2023 to 3.35 billion dollar this year at a compound annual rate of 4.4 percent.

4.4 percent. Other than the purchase of a few flies and some leader material now and then and new waders very little of that dollar amount is mine. I still fish with the same graphite rods, Cortland vest and other utensils I did two decades ago. They worked back then and they still work today

I read somewhere that some seven million Americans now fly fish, and that, too is expected to rise. I’ve read and heard about “the crowds” and “hordes” of fly fishers, that it is difficult to find an open stretch of prime water or hit a trout pond without finding someone already there. That hasn’t been my experience. I have noticed more fishers, especially on holiday weekends and during prime hatch periods, but I have had little trouble

have more free time on their hands. I’m also seeing more women fly fishing. It is no longer solely a man’s pa stime. While trout and salmon were once primary fly fishing targets, and still are, fly fishers have discovered other species such as black bass, various pan fish, northern pike even perch are fun on the right fly gear. And prime waters

ing you find yours.

Al Raychard and his wife Diane live on 43+/acres in Lyman, Maine that offer good deer and turkey hunting opportunities they both enjoy. If the property had a trout stream it would be pure paradise. Al can be reach at alraychard@ sacoriver.net

July 17,18,19

August 8,9,10

“A Hiker’s Life”

By Carey Kish, Mt. Desert Island, ME

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is one of Maine’s most iconic natural landscapes, right up there with Katahdin and Baxter State Park, Acadia National Park, Moosehead Lake, West Quoddy Head and select others.

The 92-mile river system flows north across the county lines of Piscataquis and Aroostook from Telos Lake to the village of Allagash through the vast commercial timberlands in the northwest corner of Maine.

Mention the word “Allagash” and most Mainers will conjure up images of paddling a canoe along a winding river through the deep woods, moose along the banks, loons out on a big lake, bald eagles soaring above. Simple campsites with good food and good friends around a

blaze, dark night skies dotted with a billion stars, and silence so profound you can actually hear it. Each year, thousands travel to the AWW to recreate on its pristine waters. Canoeing and boating, camping, fishing, bird and wildlife watching, photography, hunting and visiting historical sites are popular activities. Less well known are the hiking trails to the fire towers atop Allagash and Round Pond mountains, which reward with outstanding panoramic vistas.

Allagash Mountain rises prominently above the southwest shore of Allagash Lake, the headwaters of the Allagash River. There’s no direct vehicle access to the lake, so hikers must walk in from the gate on Allagash Mountain Road (4 miles round-trip).

Caribou Area

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway

From the ranger station, it’s a steep, steady climb in classic fire warden trail style to the tower atop the 1,770-foot peak. Climb up into the cab for a 360-degree spectacle you won’t soon forget.

Round Pond Mountain can be accessed only by water. From Henderson Bridge, you’ll launch your canoe or kayak and paddle downstream on the Allagash River to Round Pond, then across the pond to the Tower Trail campsite and trailhead (2.4 miles). The gradual hike is 2.5 miles to the 65-foot tower (1946) on the 1,159-foot summit. The breathtaking vista from Round Pond Mountain ranges over the seemingly endless expanse of Aroostook County forestlands.

The AWW was established by the Maine legis-

lature in 1966 to preserve, protect and enhance the wilderness character of the Allagash River region. The waterway received further protection in 1970 when it was designated the first

North Maine Woods, a consortium of public and private landowners that manages access to 3.5 million acres of working forest in northern Maine. At checkpoints, fees are charged for

Bring your hiking gear, camping equipment and paddling outfit to best explore this gem. Come very well prepared, though, as services are nonexistent and help is a long way off.

state-administered component of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System by the United States Dept. of the Interior.

Bring your hiking gear, camping equipment and paddling outfit to best explore this gem. Come very well prepared, though, as services are nonexistent and help is a long way off. To get to the AWW, you must pass through the

day use and camping (cash or check only).

Visit the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands (www.parksandlands.com) and North Maine Woods (www.northmainewoods. org) for a wealth of information essential for planning your adventure. Bring your Maine Atlas & Gazetteer, too.

Carey Kish of Mount Desert Island, ME is the author of Beer Hiking New England, AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast, and the AMC Maine Mountain Guide. Catch up with him (maybe) at maineoutdoors@aol.com, on Facebook, and on Instagram @careykish

What’s in Your Wallet?

Over the years, I’ve written many outdoor columns for a myriad of publications, as well as three fishing books. Included in those writings have been extensive stories of my favorite trout and salmon imitation flies.

Things change, however, what with new patterns and variations of old favorites always coming along, not to mention all of the new materials available to tyers these days. It’s always a temptation to add some of these new, flashy things to classic streamer fly patterns, and in some cases, it can actually improve its fish appeal.

Just the addition of a few strands of Angel Hair, Flashabou, or Kristal Flash to the Joe’s smelt patter, for instance, will surely catch the eye of a ranging salmon or trout. No question!

Now-a-days, when I’m at my fly-tying bench, or my portable tray in front of the television, I’m always sprucing-up some of my favorite streamer fly patterns with a strand or two of these glimmering additives. Classic or no!

So, back to the original question: “What’s in your wallet?” Your fly wallet, that is.

Here’s what is in mine: Barnes special, Bob’s white marabou muddler, Joe’s smelt, black ghost, grey ghost, Bob’s red and white bucktail, Leeman’s special, Ballou special marabou, Mickey Finn, and woolybuggers. Most of all these would be tandem tied streamers. When fly fishing a river or stream, however, all would be single hook casting size.

I would have at least

three of each of the top five. With me, that is. There would be plenty of backups at home or camp, for another day’s use.

Lest I forget, a few years ago, while fishing beside me on a salmon river, a friend from Columbia Falls, Maine, John Sawyer, suggested I try a new casting size streamer pattern he had good luck with. He

trout from a canoe, along brooks and streams, my fly box changes somewhat. From early spring to early fall, there’s quite a change in variety of flies in the box. In spring, it’s little grey patterns like slim Jims, blue wing olives, duns, and Hendricksons, and #10 Bob’s white marabou muddlers. In mid-spring, it’s Bill’s muddler hoppers

“Trolling From A Canoe” (Art by Larry Largay courtesy of Bob Leeman) called it “the Cathance special”. Someone down Machias way had created and used it at nearby Cathance Lake, with exceptionally good luck on landlocks there.

The casting size has #4, 4X shank hook, silver tinsel body, orange bucktail throat, with a wing peacock herl, over which two yellow hackles, sandwiched between two outside white hackles, and a red head with a painted eye. I found it to be a great fall season casting fly for landlocked salmon, and would include several in my arsenal.

Some, if not all, of our rivers and streams have a pretty fair mayfly and caddisfly, and sometimes a fair-sized stonefly hatch. I am not often without a nice array of dryfly hatch matches, in season, of course.

For casting for brook

fly casting a Wood’s special fly for brook trout in brooks and streams. That fly was created by Joe Sterling, now deceased, who resided in Danforth, Maine. Joe also can be credited for assembling the first Joe’s smelt fly and the chuck

by Bob Leeman, Bangor, ME

streamer, dryfly, wetfly, or emerger.

My nymph fly box features a galaxy of patterns, but the popular ones for me to use are pheasant tail, hare’s ear, copper John, prince nymph, Whitlock’s foxtail squirrel

Now-a-days, when I’m at my fly-tying bench, or my portable tray in front of the television, I’m always sprucing-up some of my favorite streamer fly patterns with a strand or two of these glimmering additives. Classic or no!

caddis.

and hornbergs. Then comes the time of hexagenia limbata or “hex” hatches. That’s those giant yellow mays, best imitated by yellow hornbergs, yellow-bodied hoppers, and big sulphur duns, and Wulff patterns. Small streamers like the grizzly king and Barnes special patterns should also be tried occasionally. In the last several years, I’ve had good luck

No, I have not neglected the use and listing of nymphs. And yes, I have used these in a variety of patterns. But, I must say, nymphing is not my game. A good nymphing is not my game. A good nympher will out fish another fisherman using streamers or dryflies most every time. But he is prone to being hungup constantly. And to me, it’s like fishing a worm. Now don’t get mad at me. It’s a serious, strategic way to fish. Not everyone can do it right---especially me. I’d just rather get that strike near or on top with a

nymph, and a picket pin fished wet or dry.

Bob Leeman is a Master Maine Guide, outdoor writer, naturalist, book author, and a co-host of MAINE OUTDOORS radio program on Sunday evenings from 7-8 p.m. On 103.9 FM. His three books have sold out and his plans do not call for order and selling more.

Bingham

Edited by V. Paul Reynolds

June is bustin’ out all over, and like they say, June is “troutin’and bassin’time.” With more than 5,000 lakes and ponds, thousands of miles of rivers and streams and 400 remote trout ponds scattered throughout the Pine Tree State’s sprawling wilderness, there is room enough for all of us to find solitude and sustenance for the soul - and maybe even some fish.

So get the garden in early, and get after those wonderful brookies and feisty bass. Be sure to read this issue of the Journal thoroughly. It’s chocker block full of fishing’ tips and places to go. Don’t forget to buy a fishing license -you can do that online now - register your boat, grease the hubs on your boat trailer, bring a kid along and wear a life jacket.

Outdoor News - June 2024

Game Warden of the Year

Game Warden Josh Smith of Division A in Gray, a game warden of nearly 20 years, was honored Friday, April 26th, by his peers when he was selected as the Maine Game Warden of the Year. Game Warden Sergeant Josh Beal of the Downeast region of the state was honored as supervisor of the year, and longtime retired chief pilot Roger Wolverton was honored as Legendary Game Warden of the Year.

The awards ceremony gives special recognition to game wardens for exceptional performance during 2023. Awards are given for the Maine Game Warden of the Year, Game Warden Supervisor of the Year, the Legendary Game Warden of the Year, as well as awards for conduct above the normal line of

FLY PATTERN OF THE MONTH

Purple Smelt Tied by Ora Smith

Body...Fluorescent red floss

Beads...On tandem hooked flies small cylindrical beads are placed on the connecting wire between the hooks. Wing...4 lavender saddle hackles

Throat...Red synthetic hair extending full length

Shoulders...Teal flank feathers

Cheeks...Jungle cock

duty, outstanding work that merits special attention, and recognizes individuals and groups who assisted the Maine Warden Service. Achievements that were recognized included incidents where lives were saved, and other awards highlighted the conservation of Maine’s fish and wildlife resources in ways deserving of special recognition. The following were recipients of this year’s annual awards.

2023 Maine Game Warden of the Year

Game Warden Investigator Josh Smith of Division A in Gray, a game warden for nearly 20 years, was honored as the Maine Game Warden of the year. Among the many accomplishments that were noted, Josh was recognized for his work on challenging cases that included missing persons, prohibited persons possessing firearms, illegal fish stocking, illegal possession of exotic species, commercial bait dealers, and fatal crashes.

were killed illegally, and his work to bring closure to a family of someone missing for over ten months. Smith was also praised for his work on the night of October 25th, the Lewiston shooting. While not

actively on call, Smith was one of the first officers to arrive at the second shooting scene. Josh went into the scene, and started helping any way he could, including transporting a critically injured person to the hospital in his truck after he learned there were no more ambulances available.

2023 Maine Game Warden Supervisor of the Year: Sergeant Josh Beal, of Division C in Bangor, was awarded the Supervisor of the Year Award.

Of note was one investigation where 15 deer

staff in a variety of roles, joining them in the field and assisting with investigations. He often changes his days off to make sure he is available with investigations, trainings, PR events, or to help others during a difficult time.

Josh has been a sergeant in the Downeast region of Maine since 2021, where he has quickly earned the respect of his peers, his staff, and the community. Josh was recognized for his ability to make sure his staff gets the support, guidance, and tools they need to be successful. He works with his

It was noted that his work ethic and tenacity are contagious, and his calm demeanor, and strong communication skills allow him to be an extremely valuable member of his section, division, and to the MWS supervisory staff. He was also praised for his work with his section during the past fall where there were several vacancies in his section, yet his group still maintained an excellent attitude while processing multiple cases simultaneously.

2023 Legendary Game Warden Award: Retired Game Warden Pilot Roger Wolverton began his career in 1974 in the St. Aurelie district on Maine’s northern border

(News cont. pg 13)

Sergeant Josh Beal

Investigator Josh Smith

Photos From Our Readers!

Sporting Journal columnist Stu Bristol started off his turkey season by bagging this 22 lb Tom that sported an 11 inch beard. This is one of many record book turkeys that Bristol has stacked up over the years.

News

(Cont. from pg 12)

with Quebec. From there he went to Millinocket, and then to Jefferson and the central Maine area where he later became a Game Warden Sergeant then Chief Pilot for the Maine Warden Service.

Wolverton was praised for his work with other wardens, his tireless work ethic, and his innovation. Several of his high profile rescues and cases were highlighted at the banquet, including the rescue of two missing ice fishermen in Millinocket on a blizzardy night with temperatures at 20 below

This is an old photo of Dr. A.B. Hagerty standing in front of an early snowmobile in downtown Ashland. He was the grandfather of Dana T. Hagerty from Englewood, Florida, a 90 year old who recently supplied the photo and information. He writes, “ I have been told that this is a 1929 Ford that he (the doctor) used in the winter to visit sick people in Masardis, Oxbow and Portage. I rode the same towns with him in the summers of 1938 and 1939.”

zero. Wolverton’s perseverance and instincts enabled him to rescue the frozen pair that were near death. The two spent ten days in the hospital recovering from their experience.

Wolverton was also lauded for his work as a pilot, including a night when he located a lost individual in the dark of the night flying his plane in winds that gusted over 50 miles an hour while wearing night vision googles. He was able to circle the area, and located a small fire the individual had started, and then was able to direct wardens to the area.

In addition to the above awards, the follow-

I wanted to send this picture of my 6 year old son Tucker Jantti’s first turkey. He woke up at 4 a.m. and made it out to the blind by 4:45. Stuck it out all morning after missing his first bird at 7:30 a.m.. At about noon a pair of jakes came in and he took the shot with his Stevens .410. Harvested his first turkey. The following Saturday he was eager to get after it again. We called in a bird at around 7:30 a.m. and he dropped him. Second bird was a 20lb 9 3/4 inch beard with 1 1/4 spurs! (Photo by David Jantti)

ing were presented awards for their work this past year:

2023 K9 Search and Rescue of the Year Award:

Preston Pomerleau and K9 Gordon for their work in finding a missing teenage hiker in Grafton Notch who had gotten lost in the middle of the night using the bathroom, and wandered aimlessly for hours, panicked and hypothermic, trying to find his way back.

2023 K9 Conservation Case of the Year Award:

Game Warden

Chad Robertson and K9 Storm for their work in a

criminal trespass complaint where Storm tracked the hunter past multiple “no trespassing” signs and a game camera.

2023 Meritorious Service Award

Game Warden Tennie Coleman for rescuing a snowmobiler who had gone through the ice, got out, but was nearly frozen and could not move when he got to him.

Game Warden Investigator Josh Smith, Harry Wiegman and Cody York for their immediate response to the Lewiston shooting, entering the scene where the shootings occurred, and rescuing and transporting injured victims.

2023 Exemplary Service Awards:

Game Warden Pilot Nick Mangino , for his support for game wardens from the air, and then when not flying, assisting game wardens in conservation law duties on the ground.

Game Warden Corporal Andrew Smart , acting on an Operation Game Thief tip with sparse information, was able to put together a case and a confession on a hunter killing a deer without hunter orange prior to legal shooting hours.

Game Warden Avery Boucher for his work

(News cont. pg 19)

I remember peering down the paralyzingly steep bank and being mesmerized by the tannin water flowing softly from left to right. The Old Town Discovery was just behind me, and my Dad was loading the last bit of gear into our red canoe. Black flies were swarming us but as the wind picked up, they disappeared and then

Angling, Antlers & Artifacts

By Jake Scoville, Machiasport, ME

would show back up again. The bugs didn’t bother me much, and they still don’t.

It was Father’s Day, 1999 and we were headed trout fishing.

After my father guided the canoe down the embankment, I slid down the dusty bank on my rear end. I was only six years old, embarking on what is still no easy trip even for

Father’s Day Immersion

me today. This trout stream was a family favorite. My great-grandfather had guided my Dad many times on this exact stretch of water, landing countless brookies, even the occasional salmon. The plan was to paddle upstream and then float back downstream. A task my father had done many times previously. This time, he had me sitting in the bow. I’d like to think as a young father, he had been waiting for this moment since I first came into the world.

a hungry trout violently slashed the surface at what I can now assume was an emerging caddis. My eyes lit up and I threw my worm directly into the center of the rise. No more than a second later, the trout crushed my night crawler. As I reeled the brookie

beautiful foot-long brook trout. Miraculously, as I was swinging in the trout at the same time we were capsizing, my rod and the trout replaced my father and me in the canoe.

I was elated after realizing the best fish of the day wasn’t lost. We gathered our gear up, emptied our boots, jumped back in the canoe, and headed down-

Our fishing gear was simple: night crawlers and Zebco’s. We casted in every pool, bend, and below every beaver dam. The sound of brook trout rising became background noise. Plenty of six to 10inch brook trout were eager to bite. At only six, my father had been taking me fishing since I could hold a rod, but I was ready for an adventure like this. I loved fishing and wanted nothing more than to spend a day with my old man catching trout. I may as well have been a seasoned veteran, but I still didn’t mind him putting the worm on my hook after every fish.

I can still taste the tuna fish sandwiches we had for lunch. Probably because that’s still on the menu every time we go on a trip together. Some things never change.

Nearing the end of the upstream paddle, we approached the perfect pool. Simultaneously as my Dad said, “Okay Jake, your Uncle Pete caught a nice one here the last time…”,

in, my old man started to hobble his way to the bow thinking I needed help landing the trout. You’ll never be able to guess what happened just as I started to swing the trout up into the canoe…

The boat rocked and in a split second, we both were tossed into the stream. Luckily, I could easily stand up in the belly button-deep water. I remember watching all our gear float down the stream. As my father scrambled to corral everything, I only had one thing on my mind: where was my rod and where was my fish? The canoe was right side up and just a few yards downstream of the accident, Dad yelled out, “Jake, look at this!”. To our amazement, the only items left in the canoe were my Ugly Stik and a

As I reeled the brookie in, my old man started to hobble his way to the bow thinking I needed help landing the trout. You’ll never be able to guess what happened just as I started to swing the trout up into the canoe…

stream towards the truck. As the June sun dried us out, I turned and looked at my father and said, “Dad, this is the best day of my life.”

I’ve been fortunate to catch many a trout and had countless memorable trips on the river, but few match this day with my old man. When we arrived back at the truck, my dad snapped a quick photo of me holding the infamous (or famous) trout. We recreated that picture 10 years after another successful Father’s Day float in the same stream. The next time we do this trip, the roles are likely to be reversed. I’ll be in the stern, Dad in the bow. But hey pops, let’s stay dry this time.

Jake Scoville can be reached at jacobysco@ gmail.com or on Instagram at @jacobysco

Glossy Ibises can be seen flying and gliding with quicker wingbeats too than herons or egrets. Their wingspan is about 36 inches. The group I saw had some adults whose bronze feathers flashed with hidden hues of green and purple.

eastern North America. I agree, because I had not seen this species for quite a few years. I last saw a flock flying over the Hockamock Swamp in Massachusetts. Glossy Ibises are more commonly seen in Florida and Loui-

and insects. These slender, long curved bills pointed downwards as if they were too heavy to be held in a horizontal position and are very different from the long and straight bills of herons and egrets. Also Ibises will fly with their necks

by Karen Holmes, Cooper, ME

truly “glossy” and beautiful from their upper bodies to their tails. This was like the beautiful plumages of grackles. Also present were juveniles, first winter birds, whose plumages were a much more subdued dark brown. I hope that in 2024 I may see this species again somewhere in DownEast Maine. I know Ken will drive me around. He is such a good companion and friend.

Karen Holmes is a writer and naturalist who lives in Cooper, Maine with her husband Ken. The winter and early spring storms knocked down many trees in their woods. They will be busy cleaning the debris up this spring and summer. Of course Karen will also be birding and working too at the same time!

I am always a birder and my husband Ken is used to driving me around so I can safely do so. Birding can be dangerous while driving too. So we were coming back from one of his chemotherapy treatments last summer and as we drove by some wetlands, I noticed some longlegged birds. They were walking slowly with their heads down, probing in the mud of the banks of a tidal inlet. They had long, curved bills which told me they were Glossy Ibises.

My Sibley’s Birds of Eastern North America states this species is uncommon in much of

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siana where they breed in colonies along with of their close relatives, Whitefaced Ibises. They inhabit the marshes and swamps, coastal waterways, and rice fields there. So I was surprised and delighted to see these long-legged, heron-like waders, a group of adults and juveniles here in Maine.

They were busily foraging and probing with their long gray bills in the mud for crustaceans, worms, fish

outstretched and their long legs straight out behind like cranes. Herons and egrets will fly with their necks curled and legs often trailing downwards. Glossy Ibises can be seen flying and gliding with quicker wingbeats too than herons or egrets. Their wingspan is about 36 inches. The group I saw had some adults whose bronze feathers flashed with hidden hues of green and purple. They were

The Adventures of Me and Joe

by Bob Cram, (Alias T.J. Coongate) Medway, ME

The New Truck

I was standing at the cook stove in Joe’s cabin when he slouched through the door on Tuesday morning.

“What’s that smell?” he asked, nostrils flaring.

“Salt pork,” I replied, shifting the big cast iron frying pan to a hotter part of the surface.

“No, that other smell.”

“Frying brook trout.”

He came over and peered down at the pan, an expression of pure delight crossing his tired features at the sight of the fat brookies done to a golden brown.

“Where’d you get ‘um?”

“Know that deep hole on Filcher brook? They were stacked up in there like cord wood. Had to hide behind a tree to bait my hook.”

Joe slumped into a chair as I dished up a plate full of fish and set it on the table in front of him. “Boy, I’d like to get out and do some fishing,” he said as he stripped meat from the bones of an 8-inch trout.

“Why don’t we go out on the river this evening? I

bet there’ll be a hatch at the mouth of Stonefly Steam.”

“Can’t,” he sighed. “Gotta go in at 4PM and work a 16.”

I sat down opposite him as he slowly ate the trout. “You’re gonna kill yourself at this rate, Joe. I know you want to get the truck paid off in short order, but you’ve got to take some time off.”

A few weeks before Joe had fallen for the allure of a new pickup truck. Well, the vehicle was actually a couple of years old but it was far newer than the 1948 Jeep that had been his standby for years.

Orville Smalltalk, who owns Mooseleuk Motors, had pointed out the virtues of the shiny red 4-wheel drive as me and Joe walked around it, kicking tires and drooling.

“Shiff on th’ fly 4-wheel drive. Don’t need ter git out an’ lock the wheel hubs. Great thing long ‘bout January. Got one of them autonomic transgressions in ‘er, so you don’t need ter work a clutch. Jist put ‘er in drive

Joe wasn’t meant to be working inside, working shift work in a noisy, dusty manufacturing plant, and the long hours of exposure to such an environment were taking their toll.

an there ya go.” Orville grinned, showing a broad mouthful of false teeth.

“Air condidionin’ fer them muggy August days. Big knobbly tires so you kin get right into the backcountry. Buckit seats, power winduz, power winch; it’s even got one o’ them combination gizmos what gives yer the outside temperature, where yer at on the planit, an’ the time in Alberkerkie.

“Tandy Wobble bought her brant new, then fount out it was too hard for ‘im to git up inter an’ down outa with his Arthur

If you just can’t get enough of reading our Me & Joe Adventures, check out the All Outdoor section of our new Northwoods Sporting Journal website:www.sportingjournal.com You’ll find an ample supply of Me & Joe stories to keep you checking for a long time.

righteous. Traded ‘er in fer a Harley-Davidson. Only got 5,000 miles on ‘er. I tell yer, Joe, this here’s the truck of a lifetime fer a guy like you!”

The upshot of it all was that Joe bought the truck and parked the old Jeep back of the woodshed. We rode around the back roads of the North Country, climbing hills, wallowing through mire, reaching places we’d only been able to access on foot previously. The new truck certainly lived up to its billing.

The problem with the whole deal was paying for it. Guiding in northern Maine isn’t exactly a high money proposition. Joe

had a horror of banks and other lending institutions and wanted to get the truck paid off as soon as possible. To do so, he took a job at the paper mill in Willard, about 10 miles away. He worked shift work, long hours, doubles, weekends, every hour he could and put every dime into paying off the truck. At the rate he was going the pickup should be his free and clear by October, but I doubted he’d live that long.

Joe wasn’t meant to be working inside, working shift work in a noisy, dusty manufacturing plant, and the long hours of exposure to such an environment

(Me & Joe cont. pg 17)

Me & Joe

(Cont. from pg 16)

were taking their toll. He was constantly exhausted, his hearing was degrading and his nerves were practically shot. Perhaps worst of all, he had absolutely no time to go fishing or do any guiding in the best time of the spring.

“Look, Joe,” I stared out the window at a robin busily worrying a worm out of the front yard. “You’ve got to take at least a little time off before you kill yourself. Hanscom Takeover called and wants to hire you for a day of trout fishing on Fantasy Lake. He asked me to…” I paused at a snorting sound. Joe’s head was lying on the table beside the half-eaten plate of trout. He was sound asleep, snoring loudly.

By Friday I’d managed to finally talk Joe into taking just one day off. It helped that he really liked Hanscom Takeover. Han was a tall, shambling man with long scraggly hair, spotty whiskers and a dress code that ran to army surplus. But he loved to trout fish and he was actually rolling in money. Han specialized in hostile mergers and it was said his fortune ran into eight digits. I don’t know what Han looked like or dressed like in the business centers of the world where he spent most of the year but in the three or four trips he made to northern Maine each year for fishing, he effected the appearance of a long time hermit interested only in brook trout. From the day they met, he and Joe became kindred spirits and it was a rare trip that Han didn’t hire Joe for a guide. When Joe dragged in from yet another double

shift on Friday afternoon I tried to get him to prepare tackle, canoe and other gear for the next day’s fishing. Reluctantly, he begged off.

“You know what we’ll need. Do me a favor an’ git the stuff ready an’ loaded on the truck. I got ter git some sleep or I won’t be worth nothin’ tomorrow. Prob’ly won’t anyway.” He looked bleak. “Han deserves better.”

Early the next morning we bounced down the rutted road to the shore of Fantasy Lake in Joe’s new truck. On the back was the day’s gear, including rods and tackle, cooking utensils, food and a cooler filled with beverages.

Fantasy Lake deserves its name. It is a small, deep lake with crystal clear water. It is surrounded by hills and mountains and on the eastern side, a 500 foot cliff drops vertically into the lake. Adding to the attraction is the fact that the lake is filled with fat, scrappy brook trout.

A big insurance company owns all the land around the lake and maintains a lodge on the north shore for the use of company bigwigs. Needless to say, the access road is gated off and the general public isn’t allowed to reach the lake. Somehow, Hanscom Takeover had wangled permission to use the lake and

its facilities and for several years now the three of us had enjoyed phenomenal trout fishing in a truly beautiful setting.

Hans was waiting by the water’s edge and it only took us a few minutes to unload Joe’s big canoe, fill it with the gear and shove off into the still waters of the lake.

I watched Joe as he paddled the canoe along the shore with Han casting from the bow at tiny circles of rising trout. The care and exhaustion from the past few weeks seemed to be sliding away and, for this one day at least, it seemed like Joe was the old Joe, able to enjoy himself in the natural world like few other people I know.

An hour before noon Joe let me off at the camps while he and Han continued fishing. By the time they tied up the canoe at the elaborate dock, I had potatoes laced with garlic and onions wrapped in foil and buried in the coals of a wood fire built in the big barbecue pit at the front of the main lodge. Joe and Han had kept three trout and Joe split these, seasoned them with his special blend of spices, and set them to sizzling on the grill.

A while later, we sat on the broad porch, plates balanced on our knees, and worked through the excel-

Portland

lent meal.

“Hey, Joe,” Han said through a mouthful of trout. “That’s some truck you drove up in. New, isn’t it?”

“New to me,” Joe agreed. “Finally thought it was time to retire the old jeep.”

Han looked across the cove to the landing where the pickup sat in the sun.

“Truck like that don’t come cheap. The guiding business must be looking up.”

Reluctantly, Joe told him off the job at the paper mill and his intention of paying the truck off as soon as possible.

“If you live through it,” I muttered.

Han glanced at me and back at Joe. “I thought you looked pretty dragged out and troubled,” he said thoughtfully. “Do you think even a truck like that is worth it?”

“Well,” Joe stared across at the truck. “I guess it’s like a marriage or somethin’. I done signed the papers and I owe the money. Never was one to go back on a promise.” But I thought he looked a little wistful as he looked around at the lake and the moun-

tains. Han watched him intently for a few minutes, then went back to his trout and potatoes.

The Saturday fishing trip was one of the best in memory but after Han left, Joe went back to working all hours at the mill. Day by day I watched his condition deteriorate. It was like he was caught in a vicious cycle that he couldn’t get out of. For most men, the job might not have been that telling, although the hours Joe was working were brutal. But for a lifelong outdoorsman like Joe, being cooped up inside, with the noisy machinery, large numbers of people and stale air; all of this was drastically affecting both his health and his mental condition.

Things came to a head some two weeks later. I was driving through the main street of Mooseleuk when I met Joe in his new truck obviously headed home. It was the middle of the morning and I knew he was supposed to be working another double, so I turned around and followed him to his cabin.

Pulling into the driveway alongside the new

(Me & Joe cont. pg 23)

Sam Mulholland (Marty

The year was 1875. Two farm boys from Hartford, Maine had the desire to live in the woods, to spend a winter hunting game and trapping fur. They headed north in September, took the train to Greenville and headed up

by Jeremiah Wood, Ashland, ME

North Woods of Maine

game was abundant in this country. They killed deer, moose, bear, caribou, rabbits and partridge that winter, and caught trout on their spawning beds in fall and bubbling springs mid winter.

Trapping started in October, and the boys caught 300 muskrats, four mink and a raccoon in the early season. They then

There were some dangerous experiences out in those woods. Both boys were attacked by moose in separate incidents. One was run up a tree by a bear. A wolf followed one along the trapline one day, its identity being revealed only after it was shot.

the West Branch of the Penobscot with two canoes loaded with supplies.

Way up past Gulliver’s Falls, where two streams join to form the West Branch, they chose one branch and ascended until the stream was too small to travel. There they built a cabin. It was a cozy 12x12 camp, with thin cloth for windows, built with axe and buck saw in eight days. The land here was untouched. It was a close representation of the forest as it existed when

To reach new territory the boys built camp number two, which wasn’t much more than a lean-to to keep warm overnight

the pilgrims settled the new world. With only a little flour, sugar and a few other staples, they boys would rely on game for most of their meals. They’d brought plenty of ammunition, and fortunately,

shifted to the more valuable furs – bobcat, lynx, fisher and marten – as winter set in. White ash and deer rawhide were used to make snowshoes. They made pants from moose hide and hats with muskrat furs.

www.visitaroostook.com

while tending remote trap lines. When the snow crusted over they went long distances to explore the even further reaches of this vast wilderness and scout for game and fur. There were some dangerous experiences out in those woods. Both boys were attacked by moose in separate incidents. One was run up a tree by a bear. A

wolf followed one along the trapline one day, its identity being revealed only after it was shot. There was a close call with a mountain lion, which they finally caught with a strategically set bear trap. But with good instincts and pretty good luck, they made out just fine. Spring brought breakup, and an ice jam caused a flood that nearly filled the cabin and ruined a lot of supplies. But by then the season was over and it was time to head for home, so they pulled things together and floated back down river with a valuable catch of furs they’d soon sell in Boston.

Before he left, one of the boys carved a message over the door: “This camp will be occupied Sept 20, 1876 by FW and EE Thomas”. One has to wonder if anyone else ever read that message…..and if the Thomas boys ever returned.

“In the North Woods of Maine” was written by Elmer Erwin Thomas 50 years after this north woods adventure with his cousin Frank, at the request of his sons, who clearly saw the historical value his story held. The book is rare and difficult to find, but a free audio version is available on Youtube.

Jeremiah can be reached at jrodwood@ gmail.com

(Cont. from pg 13)

rescuing an injured hiker on Tumbledown Mountain who was rock climbing and fell off the side of a cliff, and suffered a compound fracture to his leg.

Game Wardens

Chris Carney and Steve Milton for their work this fall which resulted in the seizure of 16 illegally killed deer, 111 summonses, and issued 30 OUIs.

Game Warden Charles Brown for his work in finding the body of a person who had been reported missing 9 days prior. Brown’s investigative work reduced the search area, and he ultimately found the victim deep in the woods, allowing state police to bring the killer to justice.

Game Warden Dan Christianson for his work during bear season, where he had located multiple illegal sites set by four separate individuals that resulted in seven different summonses.

Game Wardens Matt Tenan, Brad Richard, Alan Curtis, Scott Osgood, Eric Rudolph, Joshua Lugdon for their work in find a missing elderly man in a sleet storm after the man had fallen through the ice and couldn’t get out of the woods after he was looking for moose antler sheds.

Game Warden Marc D’Elia for his work and determination in solving an illegal deer snare case that resulted in two people being issued numerous violations including using snares to hunt deer, hunting on Sunday, hunting deer over bait and placing bait to entice deer.

Game Warden James Gushee and Nick

Raymond for their work in finding two illegal deer snare sites and issuing multiple summonses to an individual with a history of setting illegal snares.

Wardens Garrett Moody and Josh Theriault for their work this past fall in finding a lost 80-year-old hunter, and two young males who were stranded at night on Bigelow Mountain.

Game Warden Nicholas Raymond for his diligent work during the open water fishing season for multiple cases, including 11 over the limit and

gear restrictions cases, as well as one fishing after revocation.

Game Warden Matthew Norcia for his outstanding work over the past year, including issuing 63 summonses and 80 warnings, while also filling in for the warden service aviation division when needed.

Game Wardens Joe McBrine, Brad Richard, Jake Scott and Matthew Tenan. For their outstanding teamwork and performance during the fall season, including catching a dirt bike rider that nearly

Aroostook County

&

Many of our quality buildings are being used for shops, horse barns, playhouses, garden sheds, chicken houses and camps.

ran over two women, and cases involving an illegal moose kill, an illegally killed doe and illegally killed bear. The four issued 106 summonses in October and November.

Sergeant Andy Glidden, Sergeant Josh Bu -

bier, Pilot Nick Mangino, Pilot Jeffrey Spencer (ret), Pilot Chris Hilton, Investigator Seth Powers, Warden Josh Lugdon, Warden Brandon Sperrey, Warden Paul Mason,

(News cont. pg 61)

I am not an oracle, let’s get that straight right now. There has been only one oracle and she lived at Delphi 3,000 years ago. Not sure if she hung out with the soft hackle swing-

by Mike Maynard, Perham, ME

middling caster. I can’t even tell you the difference between a double-haul and a double-latte. Oh, I know what they are, I just can’t explain it to you. Yet still they come.

From time to time, I run across a Gospel of the Fly-Preacher type, and I am immediately reminded of another wonderful tool of the fly-fishing zealot, the ‘Auto-da-fe’. The term translates as, an ‘act of faith’; and fly fishing is nothing if not an act of faith.

ing Macedonians, but I hear she was a pretty cool chick so I’m sure she did. The point is, people far and wide are making a pilgrimage to my door to sit at my feet and bathe in the luxuriant waters of my fly-fishing ruminations. Stop doing this, please. I’m a lousy teacher, and only a fair to

Neither am I a flyfishing proselytizer. I am no preacher of the faith. But John Carrol Sain is. Sain recently wrote an article for the Mid-Current website wherein he waxes on rhapsodically about the joys of acting the part of a wild-eyed, stream-side revival preacher, raging

SPORTING JOURNAL

away in a dead language. He can’t wait for someone to ask him about fly fishing. When they do, he immediately drags every bit of fly-fishing kit he owns out of the back of his truck and goes to town on them. Sain lives for the opportunity to convert the mindless heathen over to the bright side of the road. Me? I want nothing to do with said heathen and I am happy to let them go stand on a bridge over a culvert and drown worms to their heart’s content. Ever seen a respectable fly fisherman casting from the road off a bridge? No, you have not. Good fences make good neighbors; leave the worm dudes alone; most of us were raised on worms. Glass house livin’, stone throwin’ mutha’s is not a good look for us. Sain is an evangelist on crusade. His idea of a good day of fishing would be to grab

(Faith cont. pg 21)

(Photo by V. Paul Reynolds)

Faith

(Cont. from pg 20)

his leather-bound, familyheirloom fly wallet full of Holy gray ghosties, put on his best Sunday-go-tomeeting waders, hit the riffles and net himself a couple of parr sized converts. Catching actual fish is seldom mentioned.

He admits that he likes to travel the circuit with a ball of yarn so he can make up harmless yarnflies for the philistines to safely practice with. I feel like someone should tell John that the distance between former philistine to self-righteous pharisee is only a properly adjudicated 30 yard cast away. My approach to all this is much simpler. Whenever someone asks me to teach them how to fly fish, I run away. If cornered, I will make my initial explanations so dry and archaic that their eyes immediately glaze over and they wander off in a stupor, thus allowing me to escape downstream.

From time to time, I run across a Gospel of the Fly-Preacher type, and I am immediately reminded of another wonderful tool of the fly-fishing zealot, the ‘Auto-da-fe’. The term translates as, an ‘act of faith’; and fly fishing is nothing if not an act of faith. Normally, in a proper auto-da-fe, you just burn the guy and his Zebco at the stake and you’re done with

it. The entire point of the exercise isn’t necessarily to make you all crispified, though that is the usual result. It is to remind you that ‘passion’ spelled backwards is ‘suffering’. Pain, like a wind driven zoo cougar to the back of the head, is the surest way to deliver that message. Fly fishing enlightenment comes at a price; we’ve all gone through our own personal auto-da-fe’s and come out the other side much better for it. Hopefully.

The term auto-da-fe was actually coined by the virulently sadistic princes of the British High Church, the Bishops of the Chalk. It was the ultimate punishment for those who were caught casting heretical nymphs to bottom feeding trout when they thought the river keepers weren’t looking. When the flyreformation came, it came slowly. Giants of our sport, like G.E.M. Skues pushed back a little at a time. In fact, it was Skues in 1921 who correctly pointed out that if you took the Monkees song, “Day Dream Believer” and played it backwards you could hear Davy Jones singing, “Frederic Halford and George Selwyn Marryat are the devil!” And you may well wonder what a consecrated Rock-A-Billy man like Skues was doing listening to ‘Day Dream Believer’. Well, wonder no longer; he didn’t. I just made that part up.

Look, I know we need people like John Carrol Sain in our lives. People for whom the joys of proselytizing the virtues of our sport come naturally, exuberantly even. Granted, I wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of a Sain ‘sermon’, but I understand its necessity. I’m sure there are any number of people who would appreciate his enthusiasm. I wish he’d been here when my nephew asked me to teach him how to fly fish. Apparently, my instruction

lacked proper gravitas; he hasn’t picked up a fly rod since. Perhaps I should embrace the horror and start trying to step outside my comfort zone. Would it kill me to be a more welcoming ambassador to our sport? Probably not. Maybe I’ll tie up a few sacrificial buggers and take my nephew out on the water again. Maybe I’ll learn patience and humility. Maybe…

Mike Maynard can be scolded at perhamtrout@ gmail.com

New Hampshire Outdoors

by Peter St. James, Warner, N.H.

Well, with the spring gobbler season set to end on May 31st and the Moose Lottery applications due by midnight on May 31st, we can now turn our attention to fishing.

New Hampshire offers two free fishing days each year, (The first Saturday in June and The third Saturday in January) so make plans to get out with family and friends. Youth under age 16 do not need a license to fish in New Hampshire. State residents and nonresidents alike can fish any inland water - or saltwater - in the state that

day without a fishing license. But, season dates, bag limits and all other fishing regulations must be followed on Free Fishing Day and that persons participating in a fishing tournament must still hold a license, even on that day. And don’t forget that the Catch & Release period for bass fishing is May 15th - June 15th

No doubt you seen those outdoor articles that use headlines like, “The only five lures you need for trout”. The chances are pretty good that a maker of those lures is behind

Best Trout Lures

the articles. So objectivity may be out the window. But, I think they’re on to something. The days of going afield with two or three tackle boxes loaded with everything is kind of passe. Looking around, I get the sense that there’s

floater and a Worden’s Rooster Tail. You know… that’s not a bad list? Of course, I’d have to tweak it a bit to reflect my experiences and expectations. The wooly bugger and the Dardevle would stay. I’d replace the Flatfish with

One column suggested these were the only five lures you’d need for trout. A wooly bugger, a red and white Dardevle spoon, a Flatfish, a Rapala original floater and a Worden’s Rooster Tail. You know…that’s not a bad list?

somewhat of a minimalist movement taking place. I can remember some of the best times I’ve had fishing and invariably it was just me the rod, reel and few hooks. I wasn’t horsing around twenty pounds of tackle at the same time. Now I get it if you’re going to be off the grid for a few days, but how often does that happen?

One column suggested these were the only five lures you’d need for trout.

A wooly bugger, a red and white Dardevle spoon, a Flatfish, a Rapala original

P.O.

a Panther Martin. In clear water I’d opt for the yellow body with red dots. On my list the Rapala Original Floater would be replaced by a jointed Rebel Minnow as a “broke-back” Rebel. Don’t get me wrong, I love the original floater and have taken lots of fish with it. And while it has plenty of action, I’m convinced that the “broke back” version has even more action. And finally, I’d replace the Rooster Tail with a Mepps Aglia Spinner. With or without the signature squirrel tail dressing, the Aglia

is a trout catcher. Are any five lures “guaranteed” trout catchers? Of course not. But, your chances are enhanced. You don’t have to travel light every outing. It could be every second or third trip. Who knows? You may get to like it.

Fish and Game Department has set final season dates and bag limits for the 2024–2025 waterfowl hunting season.

The regular duck season is 60 days long with a bag limit of six birds daily. The regular Canada goose season is 60 days long with two birds allowed in the daily bag.

The Northern Zone opens on October 2 and runs through November 30, 2024.

The Inland and Connecticut River Zone opens on October 9 and runs through November 11, and then reopens November 27 through December 22, 2024.

The Coastal Zone opens on October 3 and runs through October 9, and then reopens November 27, 2024 and runs through January 18, 2025.

New next year, New Hampshire will hold a Veterans and Active Military Waterfowl Weekend on January 25–26, 2025. Will tell you more later but excited to add this to the calendar!

Peter St. James is a member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association, Outdoor Writers Association of America and is a licensed NH Fishing Guide. You can reach him at : outsideinsides603@ gmail.com

Me & Joe

(Cont. from pg 17)

truck, I watched him climb slowly out and stand leaning against the door, his head down. I got out and walked around the front of my old pickup.

“Home kind of early, aren’t you?” I asked.

He lifted his head and I saw a look of misery in his eyes.

“I’ve had all I kin take,” he said slowly. “I quit that dang place this mornin’. It was either that or die.” He looked at the truck with something like despair.

Before I could say anything more, another truck pulled in behind mine and ground to a shuddering halt. I knew just how bad Joe was feeling when I saw Tramp Firewall step out, a broad grin spreading over his broad, bovine features.

Tramp was famous for hanging around pool halls and bars, but was especially known for running modified trucks at truck pulls and dirt track races around the state. I looked at Joe in dismay.

“You’re not giving up the truck?”

“Got to,” he said miserably. “Can’t keep up that job at the mill. Like to kill me as it was. That means I can’t keep payin’ for the truck. Tramp, here, he’s agreed to take over the paymints.”

“That’s right,” Tramp agreed jovially, eying Joe’s truck with an avaricious intentness. “’Course, I got to try ‘er out. Might be somethin’ not quite up to snuff an’ we’ll have to renegotiate. Might need some boot.”

Joe looked at him sourly and handed over the keys.

“I’ll jist take ‘er arount town for a minute. Be right back.”

The engine roared into life. Tramp backed out into the road in a sweeping turn, dropped the truck into drive and floored it. With a screech of tires, he tore off toward town. I shook my head.

“Truck won’t last two weeks with him.”

“I know it, I know it…” Joe just shook his head sorrowfully.

“Look, Joe, maybe I can help out. I don’t have a lot of money, but if it means keeping the truck…” But Joe was already shaking his head.

“Nope. Not your problem. It’s mine, an’ I done made my decision.”

He paused as Leonard Postal, the mailman, pulled up at the mouth of the driveway. “Got a letter fer ya Joe. Wants I should shove it in the mailbox?”

We walked to the mouth of the driveway.

“That’s okay, Leonard, I’ll take it.” Joe reached out and took a thin envelope with a flowery, embossed

design across the front. It was postmarked New York City. As Leonard putted off in his Post Office Jeep we walked back down the driveway while Joe opened the envelope and took out a sheet of heavy, creamcolored bond paper.

As he read through the printing, Joe stopped with a jerk. His mouth fell open and his eyes seemed to bulge. With a gulp he closed his mouth and read through the letter again, his lips moving slightly.

At that moment, Tramp Firewall came roaring back and brought the truck to a screeching stop just inside the driveway. He shut off the engine and climbed out of the cab dusting off his hands.

“Well, she runs purty good, but them tires ain’t slick enough for my use. Have to replace ‘um and put in some headers. I figger you’ll have to give me another…” It was as far as he got.

Joe stormed up to him and shoved his finger in tramp’s astonished face.

“What the hell you mean drivin’ my truck that way?” You git inter your junk and git it outa my driveway afore I git mad!!”

“But…but…you said you wanted to sell…”

Tramp stuttered as he backed toward his truck.

Joe followed right after him, shaking a fist in the air.

“I wouldn’t sell that truck to you if I was starvin’ an’ you had a dressed-off moose! Fact is, she’s not fer sale no more! Now git out’n my sight or I’ll be fetchin’ my rifle gun!”

Tramp leaped into his truck and burned out of the driveway with a screech of bald tires, looking back over his shoulder in fear and bewilderment. Joe grinned at the disappearing vehicle and handed the letter to me.

It was from the world headquarters of Hanscom Takeover Investments LLC. Like more of Han’s conversations, it was short and to the point:

Dear Joe,

After nearly a year of

negotiations I’ve finally concluded the purchase of The Slick Insurance & Investment Corporation. As part of the deal, of course, I also come into ownership of both the land around Fantasy Lake and lodge itself.

I need a caretaker for the lodge and the land and was hoping you would take the position. It wouldn’t take a lot of time and, of course, you’d have use of the place whenever you wanted. I’d been meaning to talk to you about this some time ago but the deal almost fell through.

After seeing the state you were in on my last trip, I knew I had to act quickly. I’ll be coming up next week for a few more days of fishing and you can let me know your decision then. We’ll talk salary, but I can promise it will be sufficient to easily pay for that new truck. Now, for God’s sake, quit that mill before you have a stroke!

The Gun Cabinet

by John Floyd, Webster Plantation, ME

As temperatures in Maine’s smallmouth bass waters climb into the 60 degree range, bass begin the spawning ritual. First, the males will begin building spawning beds. Using their caudal fins, they will sweep away larger stones and debris, building a fairly

type of lure or bait at spawning beds during the guarding phase will usually generate a lot of strikes. Mostly, it will be the smaller males that come after your bait, protecting the nesting site from intruders. A lot of these strikes will be defensive and meant to

Big Bait, Big Bass

for bait fish to replenish after the spawning process.

During the pre-spawn in late May and early June, these fish are hungry and big top-water baits produce big results for me as the large females move closer to the shallows. My favorites include the Rebel Pop’R, Arbogast Jitterbug, and the Heddon Torpedo. The one thing they all have

During the pre-spawn in late May and early June, these fish are hungry and big top-water baits produce big results for me as the large females move closer to the shallows. My favorites include the Rebel Pop’R, Arbogast Jitterbug, and the Heddon Torpedo.

smooth gravel ‘bed’. Soon after the larger females, swollen with eggs, will move to the beds and make their deposit. After their task is complete, the males move back in and stand guard over the spawning site, protecting it from predator fish looking for an easy meal. This timeline of events usually occurs from late May into the first couple of weeks of June and is widely known for fast-fishing action.

Throwing most any

Milford

keep invaders away. When these males are hooked, a close inspection of the caudal fin will usually show wear from bed-building and scales on the body may show signs of fighting with predators such as chain pickerel. These fish are fun to catch and put up a heck of a fight, but if it’s the big fish you are gunning for the old adage still holds truebig bait equals big fish.

In my past experience, the two best times of the bass season to hook big fish is when females are in the hyper feeding stage as they produce eggs in preparation of the spawn and later as the females have deposited their eggs and moved off the shallows into deeper water, foraging

in common is when they are properly fished, they create a unique sound and vibration pattern that trigger aggressive strikes.

Post-spawn is when you’ll find the big fish heading back into deeper water. I concentrate on big boulders and rock fields submerged in about 12 to 20 feet of water. Drop-offs and ledges are also key spots I like to target. These are areas bait fish congregate and once again, large smallmouth weary from the spawn and intense fishing pressure like to hide out and lay up in the shade. Rapala diving crank baits and Texas rigged swim baits are my go to this time of the season – usually late June through July. During this

period, a stretch of cooler days with some overcast skies will prompt me to throw the Jitterbug or Torpedo around big boulder formations in places where just the top of large rocks are visible but extend down into the water column. I find that for new anglers and kids alike, bass fishing during the height of the spawn is a fun and exciting experience. Bass are notorious for chasing anything during this phase and catching a lot of average size fish can be

The author and client with a 20-inch, four pound June smallmouth bass taken with a Jitterbug.

expected. But if you are ready to move into a new stage of your fishing career and want to start consistently catching big bass, remember the saying that has stood the test of time –big bait, big fish!

John is a Registered Maine Guide, an NRA Certified Instructor and is the owner of Tucker Ridge Outdoors in Webster Plantation, Maine. He can be reached at john@tuckerridge.me or on Facebook @tuckerridgeoutdoors

FREE FISHING DAYS

June 1st and 2nd 2024

On these days any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license. All other laws and regulations apply on these days.

A Memorable Concoction

“What have you got there Larry,” I asked my fishing buddy, who was applying something to his face and ears from an old, shopworn plastic bottle with a faded label. The black flies were awful.

“Take a whiff of this,” he said waving the open bottle under my nose.

“Hey,” I exclaimed.”I

from a small bottle, was applying a foul-smelling amber liquid to the back of my neck and ears. Snippets of other good fishing times with my father danced in and out in my mind as Larry and I talked. The smell brought it all back.

Always that smell.

“Ole Woodsman,”

Larry said with a grin,

man Fly Dope. The orginal formula purportedly dates back to 1882. As the story goes, in 1910, Obie Sherer - a Massachusetts man -and his fishing buddy, Dr. Donald Adams, concocted the stuff from an old recipe. It become so popular with Maine loggers that the creators began commercially marketing it in the

know that smell.” My olfactory senses scoffed up the strong smell. This, in turn, triggered whatever synapses send signals to my brain and a flood of long-dormant but wonderful childhood memories washed over me.

My Dad was there in my mind’s eye. He and I, just an eager kid, were on a big rock swatting black flies and getting ready to trout fish Harriman Pond. Dad was bent over me and,

screwing the cap back on the bottle. “ I’ve had this stuff for years.”

Before we fished, I asked Larry for a dab or two of that Ole Woodsman.

Just for old time’s sake. It worked pretty well on the flies.

Did you know that you can still get Ole Woodsman fly dope? I bought a bottle from Barry Davis at Two Rivers Canoe in East Millinocket. The correct name is Ole Time Woods-

Outdoors In Maine

by V. Paul Reynolds, Ellsworth, ME

Northeast. He says that the ingredients have not changed. He said that I was correct in my observation that today’s Ole Woodsman seems darker - almost black - compared with the more amber-colored liquid of yesteryear. “”The pine tar, which comes from Sweden, is for some reason darker

aroma of Ole Woodsman is not for everybody. But the black flies that plagued the dope-coated Maine loggers a hundred years ago haven’t changed all that much. The woodsmen knew what worked. That’s why Obie Sherer named his tar-based insect repellent after the men who relied on it in those early days.

Today, Theobald’s son, Skip Theobald, creates and markets Ole Woodsman from his operation in Sandy Point, Maine. Using the original old formula, Theobald mixes the stuff in five-gallon buckets, bottles it, packages it and distributes to stores in the Northeast. He says that the ingredients have not changed.

1920s. Over the years, the company changed hands a couple of times. It was manufactured first in

Rhode Island and later in New York. About 10 years ago, then-owner Larry Rickart sold the formula and name to Kenneth Theobald in Maine.

Today, Theobald’s son, Skip Theobald, creates and markets Ole Woodsman from his operation in Sandy Point, Maine. Using the original old formula, Theobald mixes the stuff in five-gallon buckets, bottles it, packages it and distributes to stores in the

than it was many years ago,” Theobald said. What I found interesting is that, as an insect repellent, Old Woodsman, operates on an entirely different principle than most of our more contemporary repellents. Ole Woodsman contains no DEET. Whereas the other fly dopes are designed to repell the insects, Old Woodsman camouflages your breath and sweat smells so that the insect can’t find you. Learn more from the official website: OleTimeWoodsman. com

Let’s face it. There is a trade off. The distinctive

When the black flies try to carry me away, Ole Woodsman is now my goto fly dope. It keeps the bugs away and the good memories close - a memorable concoction.

The author is editor of the Northwoods Sporting Journal. He is also a Maine Guide and host of a weekly radio program “Maine Outdoors” heard Sundays at 7 p.m. on The Voice of Maine News-Talk Network. He has authored three books. Online purchase information is available at www.sportingjournal.com

(Illustration by V. Paul Reynolds)

It’s been almost 3 years since I first began writing articles for the Northwoods Sporting Journal in the fall of 2021. Time sure does fly by. I have enjoyed this opportunity and the experience of writing stories of fel -

Warden’s Words

by Game Warden Kale O’Leary, Ashland, ME

came to me. “You haven’t written a single article about all the great fishing opportunities your area has to offer”. I will confess this thought has crossed my mind a few times over the last three years, and like any other fishermen, the

Honey Holes Disclosed

will discuss shortly. So here goes nothing. A short list of some of my favorite places to cast a line, with a modest disclaimer. Like my father once graciously told me when I was a kid, “I taught you everything you know, not everything I know.”

Some of my favorite early season, ice out lakes to fish are a bit of a drive

So here goes nothing. A short list of some of my favorite places to cast a line, with a modest disclaimer. Like my father once graciously told me when I was a kid, “I taught you everything you know, not everything I know.”

low Game Wardens, cases I have been apart of and some of the history of the Maine Warden Service. It has been rewarding to meet folks out in the woods who comment about my articles and tell me how much they enjoy reading them.

As I sit here on a rainy April day, waiting for the ice to disperse for another year and the trout to begin biting, a sudden revelation

next thought that pops into my head is usually “I can’t give up all my secret fishing spots!” Having spent 8 years working and recreating in the 16 townships I cover as a Warden, I have come to the realization that fishing pressure seems to be less and less each year. Unlike several decades ago, it would be nearly impossible to “over fish” some of the lakes and ponds I

from the nearest “hot top” road in Ashland. All of the following spots I will discuss are accessible through the North Maine Woods checkpoint in Ashland, known as “6 Mile Gate”. One spot that I have only recently starting fishing myself, came after watching many anglers land nice fish there over the years. Cliff Lake is located off the Cliff Lake Road, a

short distance from Spider Lake and has a large, multi-site North Maine Woods campsite located on the southern end of the lake. The lake trout and brook trout fishing has been very good over the last two or three springs, and I have seen many nice fish caught there. On the north end of the pond, near the thoroughfare between Cliff Lake and Twin Lake, I have

North Maine Woods

done very well catching big brookies shortly after ice out. If you are a patient troller (unlike myself), Cliff Lake has a healthy population of lake trout. I have caught some casting dead bait or lures from shore, or even trolling the top of the water column in the spring as they are up high chasing bait. I have always enjoyed fly fishing, growing up fishing tandem streamers on the Fish River in Soldier Pond. There has always been something special for me about fly fishing, especially during an insect hatch. The week of July 4 th is a special week of the year, not only because of the anniversary of our nation’s independence, but because of the green drake hatch in the North Maine Woods. Green drakes are one of the largest emerging insect species and usually one of the last big hatches of the season, sending brook trout into a feeding frenzy. I have had some of the best fishing nights of my life during this week every year. A few of the (Holes cont. pg 30)

The author with a nice brookie.

“Big Mac” Blues

One afternoon last summer as I was cleaning the back deck of the Teazer after a particularly messy groundfish trip, I spotted a man carrying a large fish down the adjacent finger dock. Even from a dis -

scrappy, tenacious, and just plain fun.

The following morning, we had a group of repeat clients aboard hoping to tag and release a few sharks. On our way south to the deep water, we took

tance, I could see that the fish had a sharply forked tail. I yelled out, “Is that a pollock or a bluefish?” He hollered back with a big grin. “Bluefish!” “That’s a good one! Come over and tell me the story,” I replied. Fueled by adrenaline, the angler was eager to chat and generous with his information.

On scorching summer days when the stripers won’t cooperate, locating a school of hungry bluefish - and bluefish are always hungry - is like pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Bluefish are nomadic gluttons, following closely behind schools of bait. They tend to suddenly appear in an area, vanish, and then reappear across the bay. In recent years, however, their presence in Maine waters has been highly inconsistent. Some seasons, except for a few stragglers, bluefish never arrive. A fresh report of local blues is something to get excited about. With their aggressive strikes, tendency to splash on the surface, and ability to peel drag, bluefish are the perfect charter fish. They are

The Rapala got smoked almost immediately. The client grabbed the rod, and a short while later, I gaffed the bluefish and swung it aboard. 10 pounds. Next, the Big Mac rod arced and began bouncing as the clicker engaged. 12 pounds. We then hooked and lost a fish on the Big Mac. Midway

the Little Mac (5 ½ in., ⅔ oz.), ShalloMac (6 in., 1 ⅛ oz.), and ThunderMac (5 ¾ in., 1 oz.). With a tight erratic action, the Big Mac was a deep-diving trolling plug, capable of reaching down to 30 feet. Unlike

Maine Tails

By Jonah Paris, Ellsworth, ME

Mac resembled a medieval torture weapon on the business end. Most wise anglers would remove the middle treble to make the plug more manageable. Bluefish are notorious for “spitting” hooks, and when

On scorching summer days when the stripers won’t cooperate, locating a school of hungry bluefish - and bluefish are always hungry - is like pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Bluefish are nomadic gluttons, following closely behind schools of bait.

a detour. I had rummaged through the captain’s tackle drawers the afternoon before and plucked my favorite bluefish trolling plugs. As we rounded Richmond Island and pushed further into Saco Bay, I put out a small spread of flatlines.

On one rod, I attached a 50 lb. steel leader and clipped on an orange Rapala CD 18 Countdown Magnum. On the second rod, I rigged another heavy steel leader and attached a scratched, rusty, well-loved Storm Big Mac in blue mackerel pattern.

through another pass, the Big Mac rod went off yet again and doubled over. Our client began battling a bluefish twice the size of the others. As the fish eventually neared the boat, it turned and took a blistering run. The big blue parted the steel leader, taking the captain’s treasured Big Mac with it.

The Storm Big Mac was perhaps the finest bluefish plug to ever hit the market. At 7 inches and 1 ¼ oz., the Big Mac was the largest lure in what Storm termed the “Mac Family.” Other members included

the Rebel Minnow plugs, where the plastic lip would crack off or pull out from the slot under the nose, the lip of the Big Mac was part of the solid mold. The plug could take abuse, and was originally advertised as a lure for pike, muskie, striper, and bluefish.

Armed with three treble hooks spaced closely together - 9 barbs - the Big

a treble launches out of a blue’s mouth, it usually doesn’t end well for the angler. As a young kid fishing the Kennebec River in Bath with my father and grandfather, I recall being told to stand behind the console whenever a bluefish hit the deck. Currently, Maine anglers are prohibited from fishing a plug for bluefish

(“Big Mac” cont. pg 30)

An assortment of Big Macs. (Photo courtesy of Jonah Paris.)

Women In The Woods

by Erin Merrill, Portland, ME

Constitutional Amendments the Answer?

the issue of Sunday hunting as it relates to Maine’s right to food amendment.

A no because it would be too expensive and it wouldn’t actually protect anything. A right to hunting and fishing means just that; we can participate in those activities. It does not protect the methods that we can use. It wouldn’t necessarily save a method like trapping or hound hunting from being targeted.

When the International Order of Theodore Roosevelt met this spring in Arizona, they spoke about the need for constitutional amendments to help protect our hunting rights. They were focused on Florida and a few other states. I thought of New Jersey and their on again, off again bear hunt. And I thought of a conversation that I was a part of following Maine’s win in the 2014 election. We wondered if a constitutional amendment would make sense to ensure we didn’t have to continually fight ballot initiatives. The answer we were told was no.

It does not protect the methods that we can use. It wouldn’t necessarily save a method like trapping or hound hunting from being targeted.

The Parkers’ argued that because of their work schedules and their children’s school commitments, they have limited time to harvest food through hunting. It is the same argument that a lot of people make when talking about wanting more time to hunt.

We saw this play out in a recent ruling by the Maine Supreme Court in the case of Parker et al. vs Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, on

The court looked at the language of the amendment, Article I, section 25 of the Maine Constitution and focused on a few pieces; the definition of harvest and the second half

Central Maine Region

of the Amendment itself. In order to define harvest, they reviewed several definitions of what it could mean, from gathering a crop to catching, shooting and trapping fish or game for consumption. Given that it is a common phrase used when someone hunts an animal, they were comfortable concluding that the amendment was referencing hunting as a part of the right to food.

The second half of the amendment states that someone can have these rights “…as long as an individual does not commit trespass, theft, poaching or other abuses of private property rights, public lands or natural resources in the harvesting, produc-

tion or acquisition of food.” Basically, you have these rights as long as you follow the law.

And we all know what Maine law states – Sunday hunting is illegal in Maine. The Court’s conclusion was simple, “In sum, we hold that the right to hunt for food created by the amendment does not extend to illegal hunting, and therefore Maine’s longstanding Sunday hunting ban does not conflict with the Maine Constitution.”

It may sound like a good answer to preserving hunting and fishing but in reality it costs a lot of money and does not have the protections that we may want.

Erin is a member of the Professional Outdoor Media Association, Outdoor Writers Association of America and the New England Outdoor Writers Association. She is a senior writer for Drury Outdoors’ DeerCast. You can read about Erin’s adventures and contact her at www.andastrongcupofcoffee.com

Using A Checkcord

A check cord is a long rope used primarily for controlling a dogs behavior at a distance. It’s been used in training for decades and used long before the e-

now what do we do with it?

Most of the time when the rope is attached to the dog, there should be slack in the rope. It’s difficult to send signals through the rope

collar. Introduced in basic yard training, it can teach your young dog to work close to you. You have control of your dog’s movement at all times.

You’ll want a fairly stiff rope (nylon is best). A stiff rope helps eliminate tangling and puts you more in direct contact with the dog. The pros prefer a bowline knot which allows the rope to rotate easily. Length can be anywhere from 15 to 25 feet. Length is determined by what you’re actually teaching.

If you’re teaching distance (range), a 25 foot rope is best. If you’re teaching steadiness, a 15 foot rope is best. You don’t need to own two ropes. Simply coil your 25 foot rope to 15 feet for steadiness training. Also, make sure you use a swivel snap to connect the rope to the collar. The swivel will help keep the rope from tangling. Most pro-trainers prefer a heavy leather collar. The connection to the collar should be with a D-ring which also helps keep the rope from tangling.

We have our rope,

Once you develop your rope handling skills, it’s time to add your dog to the exercise. A quick reminder that the cue is a slight tug with your wrist; not a jerk with your arm. Also, be careful to not tug when the rope is under the dog. If you tug and the rope hits the belly, you’re

if right legged, always turning to the right. The changing direction drill will help overcome a favored leg and direction.

The checkcord can be used to produce several different reactions from your

your imagination, however, always be consistent. A well mannered dog is a joy to hunt with.

Paul, and his wife, Susan, are hosts for Bird Dogs

For changing direction, step to the right and then flip the rope to the right. After three or four steps, step to the left and flip the rope to the left. This teaches the dog to go with you. When changing direction, a tug should not be necessary.

if it’s always taunt. Also, don’t coil the rope around your hand. Allow loose rope to simply drag on the ground. This puts you into position to give a slight tug on the rope. Do not jerk the rope. Only a tug. Being able to handle a rope is important to the success of check cord use. About 15 years ago, I watched a professional trainer teach a student how to use a check cord. The trainer attached the check cord to a stake driven into the ground. The trainer demonstrated what a short tug was and, also, how you would loop the rope over a dog’s back. Being able to loop the rope enables the handler to change direction of the dog. Looping may take a little practice, however, it’s very effective. Remember that the loop is formed with a right to left, or left to right, movement. Never up or down. After looping the rope over the back, give a short tug. You’re giving the dog a signal that you’ve changing direction. When practicing, learn to flip the rope at different distances.

sending a whole new message which the dog will not understand.

For changing direction, step to the right and then flip the rope to the right. After three or four steps, step to the left and flip the rope to the left. This teaches the dog to go with you. When changing direction, a tug should not be necessary. The slight pull on the collar from the rope flip should be enough to cue the dog to the change in direction. Not only does the change in direction teach your dog to go with you, it also teaches your dog to quarter in the field. By quartering, your dog develops a pattern which covers more territory. Obviously, we’re not going to be using the checkcord to change direction when we’re hunting and carrying our shotgun. If the exercise is done correctly, your dog will change direction when you do with no rope work. One point here that is often missed. It’s often said that dogs are like humans; they favor one front leg. It’s like a human that is either right or left handed. That means your dog may favor,

dog. A short tug may be used to stop pulling. Two short tugs may be used for reinforcing the “whoa” command. Three short tugs might be for recall. Use

Afield TV. All past episodes are on their YouTube Channel. Watch at www.youtube. com/birddogsafield . Contact: pau@birddogsafield. com

Holes

(Cont. from 26)

ponds that I fish during this week are Upper Hudson Pond and Mountain Pond. Both are located relatively close to each other and are beautiful, picturesque Maine trout ponds with heavy drake hatches. Both of these ponds require a bit of hike to access them, but are worth it if you enjoy catching trout on your fly rod. I have brought several new or beginner fly fishermen into these ponds and they are gener-

ally hooked after the first night. Another interesting thing about Mountain Pond is that the drakes generally start hatching around noontime, a lot sooner than waiting for the last half hour at Upper Hudson. As I am running out of words, I will list a few more of my favorite places to try on your adventure into this area. Malcolm Branch of Chandler Stream is an excellent early season brook trout fishery. Munsungan Stream and Mooseleuk Stream are both special regulation waters, but hold

14 Main Rd South, Hampden, ME

• Self Storage • Container Sales

• Container Rental 207-862-5010 www.landandseastorage.com

Kale O’Leary is a Maine Game Warden who covers the Oxbow/Masardis district in central Aroostook County. He has been a Game Warden since 2016 and lives in Ashland.

“Big Mac”

(Cont. from 26)

with more than two treble hooks.

Storm Manufacturing Company was founded by Gary and Bill Storm in 1964. Based in Norman

both salmon and brook trout throughout most of the summer in the deeper pools. Ragged Mountain Pond, Little Pillsbury and Peaked Mountain Pond are three small trout ponds that produce good numbers of fish, with bigger ones mixed in as well, providing great places to bring young people interested in learning how to fish. Carry a law book this summer, as many of these listed ponds have special regulations. Hope to see you out on the water this spring and if you take my advice and don’t catch any fish, I didn’t tell you to fish there!

Oklahoma, Storm became a great success and was purchased by Rapala in 1999. Under Rapala ownership, the Big Mac dropped out of production, but anglers across the Northeast didn’t seem to notice for the next decade. Everyone’s tackle boxes were already stocked with Big Macs. A summer cruise around Saco Bay or Casco Bay in the mid2000’s would show nearly every recreational boat, charter boat, and even a few lobster boats carrying a rod rigged with a steel leader and a fluorescent orange Big Mac. The plug functioned as a mode of communication and mutual understanding; “I like bluefish, and I know about the not-so-secret secret lure.” Fluorescent orange, fluorescent red, rainbow, and any of the mackerel patterns were always hot tickets. Bluefish love bright, bold colors.

Today, Storm Big Macs can still be found buried at the bottom of forgotten tackle boxes, hanging from the rafters of dusty sheds, and rusting out in the wheelhouses of lobster boats. I have had good luck stumbling upon Big Macs at roadside yard sales and flea markets. Most have a “rash” on the paint and deep gouges in the body, reminders of the fishy days of yesteryear. Pawing through my stash of Big Macs, I find myself drifting back to summer days, singing drags, and toothy, yellow-eyed bruisers. I hope the bluefish make a showing this season.

During the summer, Jonah is first mate aboard the Teazer in South Portland, Maine. Jonah can be reached at jonaheparis@ gmail.com

New License Plate

The Massachusetts State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation is proud to announce that a new License Plate has been introduced in the Bay State, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Massachusetts State Chapter whose mission is to ensure that future generations have the op -

ginning, when we were discussing the project and getting excited about the possibilities of doing some real good, we knew nothing about the amount of work it would take to get there!

As our discussions on the project continued through the winter of 2019, we really had no idea how to even get started. But we

But by the spring of 2023, we finally had a plate design that everyone agreed on, and the wait for RMV final approval was on! A few months later, an email arrived with word that the Registrar had approved our plate design, which then allowed us to finally explain publicly how someone can obtain this specialty plate for themselves!

portunity to experience the story of the Eastern Wild Turkey, while working to secure the continued success of perhaps the greatest conservation success story in the history of the state!

Since 2019, the Massachusetts State Chapter has been working closely with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and the National Wild Turkey Federation’s national organization, to develop a Massachusetts - Wild Turkey - License Plate. And in November of 2023, the design, and the license plate itself, was approved and is starting to be seen, talked about, and hopefully supported by hunters, conservationists, and others who simply love having wild turkeys in Massachusetts!

Let me explain more about the project, how the design was created, and how you can obtain one of these specialty plates for yourself, friends, or loved ones living in the Bay State! In the very be-

had friends who’d worked on these plate projects before, and when we contacted them, they were happy to offer us guidance, along with their contacts, which truly gave us the ability to begin! Then the pandemic hit! But our Board of Directors continued to meet by phone and in the ZOOM, finally convincing ourselves that we should at least take the idea out for a spin and see where it landed. Soon after, we began reaching out again to our contacts and suddenly, a larger plan began to develop, which eventually led us to the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Before long, it was time to begin the process of creating a wild turkey design for the license plate, and the Registry of Motor Vehicles professionals, and the graphic designers from our national organization, really stepped up to help. Additional meetings, and more work followed with a few setbacks along the way.

To get this Specialty Plate into production, our organization must first process 750 applications/ orders into the RMV. Production will begin on the 750 plates when this order is completed, and the plates are paid for. The initial cost of the license plate will be a $40 special plate fee, the Mass. NWTF Chapter will retain $28 dollars of this amount. A $20 swap fee will also be required when your plates are ready. You’ll be notified by the RMV when your plates are being shipped, but remember, no plates will be produced until we have 750 plates ordered and paid for. After that, it will take at least another 6 months for the plates to be produced and sent to you. So, patience will become a virtue here, but we’ll keep folks updated periodically on our progress. After you receive your new plates,

On The Ridge

by Joe Judd Shelburne, MA

with instructions on what to do with your old plate, the plates will be renewed every 2 years, just like a passenger plate is now, but the cost will be $100; $60 for the registration, plus the $40 specialty plate fee, which is tax deductible and comes directly back to the Mass. NWTF Chapter. And for organizations like

Since 2019, the Massachusetts State Chapter has been working closely with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and the National Wild Turkey Federation’s national organization, to develop a Massachusetts - Wild Turkey - License Plate.

ours, this project, and the potential funding it could bring, becomes essential for allowing us to further our mission to acquire and protect habitat and open space, while partnering with other organizations like ours, who share the same missions and goals as we do.

itself, or the possibility of reserving a plate number that might be special to you!

Joe Judd is a lifelong hunter and sportsman. He is an outdoor writer, seminar speaker, member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association, and a 2019 inductee into the New England Turkey Hunting Hall of Fame. Joe is also a member of the Quaker Boy Game Calls and Bass Pro/ Cabela’s Pro-Staff’s

Right now, you can order these license plates at NWTF Chapter Banquets being held in May and June throughout the state. Visit our MA NWTF Chapter website for specific dates and times for these events! You can also order these licenses directly from the website as well. Or, you can reach out to either myself at jjontheridge@comcast.net , or Keith Fritze at centralmassnwtf@gmail. com and we’ll be happy to take your application, have a much broader discussion with you about the project

For more than 20 years, the Maine Outdoors has been talking to outdoor people about hunting and fishing and anything related to the outdoors. Hosts V. Paul Reynolds and Bob Leeman. Interview studio guests and take your calls. Outdoor trivia questions and prizes! Now streaming live, worldwide. Google WVOMFM

None of us get the chance to spend as much time in the wilderness as we would like. With as much time as we spend at home, planning for emergencies there should be a high priority. Everyone’s situation is different; skills, supplies, even concerns about what emergencies

Basics Of Survival

by Joe Frazier, Bangor, ME

What is your fire plan?

Does everyone know how to get out of the house and where to meet? Do you have fire/carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the house? If you have a connected garage, do you have an integrated alarm that will trigger inside the house? Extremely impor-

Survival at Home

house, can you shut that off?

If you have a water leak, do you know how to shut off the water feeding into your house?

If you are expecting a deep freeze and can’t heat your house do you know how to drain the pipes so they don’t freeze? Do you have RV antifreeze for the drains?

If you have to evacuate, do you know what to take? Are your critical pa-

If you have to evacuate, do you know what to take? Are your critical papers and IDs in a fireproof lock box you can grab and go? Do you have some cash in your lock box so you are not stranded if credit cards don’t work?

they want to be prepared for. Rather than instructions, this article will mostly be to get you thinking and you decide what you need.

The first concern is medical. Do you have basic first aid training? Are your OTC and prescription medications up to date? Is your first aid kit portable and accessible? Where is your closest emergency room? Once humans are covered, how about your pets?

tant if you park an electric vehicle inside. Do you have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and bedroom areas? Do you know how to shut off Propane or natural gas feeding into your house? Do you have a dedicated wrench stored where the natural gas shut off is? Can you shut off the electricity coming into your house? Do you know where the breaker box is and how to operate it? If you have a generator that is directly wired to your

pers and IDs in a fireproof lock box you can grab and go? Do you have some cash in your lock box so you are not stranded if credit cards don’t work? Do you have basic gear either in your car or stored close by so you can load it in a hurry? Do you have two pictures of all your insured valuables; one a general picture and one with the serial number of the item? If you email the photos to yourself, then you can access them from anywhere.

Send Us Your Favorite Game and Fish Recipes!

Most outdoor folks like to eat what they bring home from the woods or the waters. And you like to cook it yourself, too right? So what is your favorite culinary lashup with fish or fowl? The Northwoods Sporting Journal would like to know. And we invite you to help us share your proud concoction with all of our readers. Our Northwoods Sporting Journal website:www.sportingjournal.com has a new addition: Outdoor Connections, which includes “Sporting Journal’s Top Shelf Game & Fish Recipes.” It has become a popular spot for visitors to find some great outdoor recipes, not from TV cooks, but from folks like you who live it.

Email us your favorite outdoor recipe to editor, V. Paul Reynolds, at vpaulr@tds.net. We won’t send you any money, or give you a new boat and motor, but we will list your recipe with all the others, along with your name.

If your recipe catches on and goes viral, we’ll figure out some kind of reward - say a new fry pan, a crockpot, or maybe a dutch oven?

So get crackin’...

Do you have critical phone numbers written down in case your phone crashes? Do you have a spare phone charger in your car? Do you have a kennel you can throw in the car quickly if you have to evacuate with your pet? You also need food, water, and paperwork for your pet.

Wherever you store your camping gear, it should be color coded with duct tape. Storage bins or shelves marked with red go first, yellow if you have time, and green if you can. You decide what is critical BEFORE the high stress time of an evacuation. If you need to evacuate, you should have food, clothes, and gear to keep you going for three days. Always keep your car gas tank half full or more so you don’t need to stop for a while.

If you are evacuating in a hurry, the fastest way to empty a bedroom is to throw everything on the bed and wrap it up in the blankets/sheets. You can sort it out later. You need to consider emergencies at work as well. Do you know where to go in case of a fire?

Have you ever walked the fire stairs? Where do they come out? If you keep ba-

sic camping gear and food in your car, you could stay at work for a couple days comfortably. Does your workplace have procedures for dealing with different kinds of emergencies? Do you know them? What are your responsibilities? Who at work has medical training? Where is the medical gear kept?

In an emergency or evacuation, who picks up your kids? Do they know the plan?

There is a lot to consider when planning for emergencies. We should all have family plans for a few “What ifs”. There is no way to plan for all emergencies so start with the most likely first. Don’t get overwhelmed and don’t feel like you need lots of special equipment. Your food and cooking gear work just as well daily in your kitchen, out when you are camping, or as emergency supplies. The important part is to start someplace. Prioritize one problem at a time and make sure you are ready for it. This should not be about buying more stuff, rather it should be about making a plan.

Joe is a husband, father, author and Marine. Joefrazier193@ gmail.com

Used Treasures

I have recently engaged in some discussions about buying used guns, specifically shot guns. I love this topic because I truly love perusing used gun racks in gun shops. It is as enjoyable to me as listening to “Bert and I” on the radio, if any of you are old enough to relate to that. However, shotguns are a diverse subject. There are a few things that apply

between the two. The twisting test is for break actions. Repeaters like pump actions or semi autos can be checked by listening for the click as the action locks. You can also push your thumb down on the locked bolt to check for play.

for damage. The barrel needs to be held up to be inspected for straightness. Next, look at the wood color. The forend should be a color match with the rear stock. If any of these defects are present, it may not be a reason to not purchase the gun. That decision is up to you. It may be an opportunity to renegotiate the price. If the defect is in the action, make sure you are

by Tom Kelly, Orient, ME

that the previous owner and his gun experienced. Show the gun and its previous owner the respect that they deserve if you choose to buy it.

The next important check is the bore. It should be smooth and free from blemishes and dents. If the shotgun has removable chokes, they should unscrew freely. The wood to metal fit should be free from cracks and chips or splits.

to all of them. In fact, they apply to all used guns. The first is lock up. No matter what action the shotgun has, the action must have a solid lock up. The test is that when the action is closed, there must be no play between the breach face and the barrels. Gripping the pistol grip with one hand and the barrel with the other and twisting in opposite directions will tell if there is any play

The next important check is the bore. It should be smooth and free from blemishes and dents. If the shotgun has removable chokes, they should unscrew freely. The wood to metal fit should be free from cracks and chips or splits. If the wood is discolored at the edges, it could mean that the edges may be soft or soggy from over oiling. The muzzle should also be checked for dings and dents. Extractors need to be checked for cracks and chips. Also, in the case of pumps or semi autos, the ejector should be checked

willing and able to have the work done by a qualified gunsmith. If the defects are cosmetic, then the question is, are you willing to fix them or just ignore them?

Always remember that used gun prices are like used car prices, they are always negotiable. Used gun conditions also reflect the care that the original owner took with the gun. Each gun also gives a glimpse into the life and adventures

Best Shot!

Sporting Journal

reader Ken

Worster in front of Casa Buonarotti (Michelangelo’s residence), one in Museo Bargello and in front of the statue of David at Del’Accademia.

Please take a youngster or new shooter with you while you are shopping for your next prized possession, so they may experience and learn from the activity.

Tom is a Registered Maine Guide. He is the

owner/operator of Shamrock Outfitters in Orient Maine with his wife Ellie. He is a retired police officer as well as a retired manager from two major firearms manufacturers. He is an NRA Certified Instructor as well as a Hunter Safety Instructor in Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. You can reach Tom at Shamrock Outfitters (207) 694-2473. Please visit our Facebook Page: Shamrock Outfitters and Properties and come visit us on East Grand Lake.

The Maine Woods

Matt LaRoche, Shirley, ME

Oh! How I look forward to the month of Juneit is the best month for fly fishing of the year. The water has warmed up a bit, the fish are active and the insect activity is at its peak.

Landlocked salmon and brook trout will “zero in” on whatever insects are hatching. All the fly fisherman has to do is match the

fly has to be presented just right, be the right size, shape and to a lesser extent color. I have been fishing on Nesowdahunk Deadwater during a Hendrickson hatch without the right fly and found it to be very frustrating. If you have the “right fly”, it can be an evening to remember!

The right fly imitation

June Fly Fishing

hardly breathe without inhaling one- they actually don’t taste that bad!

The caddis hatch can be a little frustrating. When you see fish jumping right out of the water and you can’t catch one, it will make you start questioning your skill level.

One of the fishermen/ campers that used to fish the West Branch every year told me that when you see the salmon jumping right out of the water, they are

The West Branch of the Penobscot, in my opinion, is the best landlocked salmon fishing in the State of Maine. The section of river from Abol Bridge to Ripogenus Dam holds some beautiful wild salmon and brookies.

hatch and present the fly in a natural way.

The West Branch of the Penobscot, in my opinion, is the best landlocked salmon fishing in the State of Maine. The section of river from Abol Bridge to Ripogenus Dam holds some beautiful wild salmon and brookies.

The fly hatch on the West Branch starts at the end of May or early June with the Hendrickson mayfly- the landlocks really love this mayfly but they are very selective. Your

for the Hendrickson is a Comparadun. Often times the fish will stop biting just before dark. If so, take a look at the flies floating by on the water. If they are dead flies with their wings laying flat on the water, switch to a spent wing mayfly- this will work until you can’t see anymore.

The West Branch is famous for its caddis hatch.

This hatch usually starts about the first week of June and will last well into July. I’ve seen hatches so heavy in mid-June that you can

it, you won’t believe how well it works! As the month wears on, the caddis flies get smaller and darker so be prepared bring some #18 black caddis imitations if fishing later in the month. There is another hatch worth mentioning on the West Branch. If you happen to be fishing the river

private campsites at Big Eddy and Abol.

If you have never fished the West Branch of the Penobscot, you are missing out. It has some great fishing and spectacular scenery. I have to warn you, those big salmon are very selective. Don’t be afraid to talk with other

not taking flies on the surface. They are chasing the caddis pupa as it is hatching. He gave me a long explanation of the whole life cycle of the caddis fly- the important part is that these flies float to the surface in a bubble and struggle at the surface to exit the bubble. This is when they are most vulnerable and easy prey for feeding fish.

All one has to do is drift a #14 or #16 caddis pupa imitation over a feeding fish and- wham! I usually put silicone fly floatant on my leader but not the fly so that the fly floats just under the surface. Try

on a hot day, there might be a flying ant hatch. The salmon don’t seem to like these but the brookies do. The brook trout are not as selective as the salmon, so all you need is a fly that looks about the same as the ants that you see on the water. BTW- there are some really nice brook trout in the West Branch. There are plenty of opportunities to camp right along the river. The Bureau of Parks and Lands maintains some very nice campsites along the West Branch that are first come – first serve and there are

fishermen. I find that they will share a lot more information when you are on the river than they will at other times.

Keep those lines tight!

Matt LaRoche is a retired Superintendent of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, owner of Maine Woods Guide Service and an avid outdoorsman. He can be reached at 207695-2877 or at matt.laroche2877@gmail.com . See www.mainewoodsguide.com

LOOKING FOR NEW CUSTOMERS?

The

One of the things that we often miss, or do not pay close attention to in the out-of-doors, is the sense of smell. The other senses are obvious. Sight, sound, and touch in particular are

Smells

smell like a goat would waft to him. Anyone that has dressed out a deer will attest to the smell of goat. I have never had the experience of smelling deer except when I was between

relied upon most. We give less attention to smell and taste.

We interpret the environment mostly by sight. When we are deer hunting, we look for lines parallel to the ground, an ear or tail, or the freshness of a track, to give away the presence of a deer. While brook fishing we interpret the swirls of current to indicate where trout may lay. Sound is next in importance. Maybe it is listening for that crack of a stick while on stand or the subtle cluck of a partridge. Touch is usually indirect, as in the feeling of cold as the wind bores through your light clothing, as you sit on a deer stand or stand out on the ice. All these things are common and noticeable, but how about smell?

I have learned to be attuned to smells. The old poacher we used to hunt with “Downeast” espoused that with the right conditions, he could smell a deer. On a warmish damp day with a breeze from just the right direction, the

partridge in the presence of that smell but it is so connected to the woods in October that we call it the “partridge smell”. It makes you aware of what you are in the woods for, that along with the twenty gauge shotgun hanging from the crook of the arm.

In the winter there is another smell that I am sometimes aware of but cannot really describe. On a damp and cold day

From Craig Pond

by Bob Mercer, Bucksport, ME

their legs with a sharp knife in my hand. The smell is strong enough that I have no doubt a person with a strong sense of smell could smell them while hunting. One of my favorite smells in the woods is very distinct but hard to describe, it comes in October in the partridge woods. When walking down a nice old twitch road, all of a sudden there is a kind of sour smell, maybe like the combination of rotting apples and rotting leaves, it only last a short time in a specific place and it goes away almost as soon as you recognize it. It is very unique to that time of year and environment. I don’t remember ever flushing a

have you ever heard an old farmer refrain that it smells like snow? It is there and palpable but I cannot really explain clearly what it is. The best I can describe is the air smells heavy and damp. I cannot go much beyond that. It is kind of like the Supreme Court Justice when asked to describe pornography, said, “I can’t really describe it but I know it when I see it“. That is what I say about the smell of snow coming, “I know it when I smell it”.

Lastly, the smell of wood smoke, not trash burning but an outdoor cook fire or fire of a wood stove. Sometimes it is a pain in the butt when for some reason, while trying to cook or just enjoy a camp fire; the breeze

keeps it chasing you around no matter where you go. There is that secondary smell when one comes in from a day that featured a camp fire and you pull your cloths over your head and there it is the smell of the camp fire. The smell of wood smoke is most poignant when it takes you by surprise. You may be driving down the road and pass a house in which there is a nice fire in a stove. You kind of sense that special warmth generated by wood heat. That smell brings the memories flooding back from that place where special memories are stored. That are memories of that trip “up country” where the trout were rising in such numbers you could have tied on a cigarette butt and caught fish. Maybe it was

the day on a local pickerel pond where you had to leave flags flying in order to get a lunch cooked. They could be of days deer hunting and building a small fire in the woods and cooking strips of deer steak on a stick over a fire and eating it between the folds of a piece of bread and butter.

I have learned to be attuned to smells. The old poacher we used to hunt with “Downeast” espoused that with the right conditions, he could smell a deer.

Of course, these memories are not only of the smoke but of those special friends that shared those smells and experiences with you.

Bob writes from the shores of Craig Pond. Were he and his wife Jean have raised three children and ten grand children. Bob is a former Maine Guide and an avid outdoorsman. He can be contacted at Craigponder @ myfairpoint.net

I’ve always hesitated to call myself a birder. My binoculars are ancient, a little blurry, and held together with electrical tape. Spotting spring warblers flitting around treetops in search of insects seems impossible. The hawks still mystify me.

Perhaps that’s what

View From The River

by Laurie Chandler Bremen, ME

I wandered down to the park’s marina on the tidal South Brunswick River. I wanted to ask about kayaking there but no one was around at the fancy boat lift or fish cleaning station. No one, that is, but birds.

A pair of brown pelicans shared the dock with a cormorant and some

Heaven for a bird lover

brown hazel eyes, seemingly at peace. Their heads were covered with the softest, pale-yellow fluff, like a tiny Easter chick. Surely one of nature’s unexpected wonders.

In the time it took to dry my laundry, the marina served up a buffet of birds. A male hooded merganser drew close to shore, looking like two different birds with his hood or crest

Often, striking birds appeared unexpectedly. Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest offered only tiny, round sinkhole ponds, so I ventured further afield, kayaking a tributary of the Conecuh River called Patsaliga Creek.

made my winter in the South so delightful. There were waterbirds everywhere. So refreshingly large and often in colors that stood out from afar. You’ve already heard about the buffleheads and American bittern, the dowitcher feeding unperturbed near the jaws of a large gator, and my first exotic pink roseate spoonbill.

The morning my birding enthusiasm skyrocketed was a quiet one at Blythe Island Regional Park, south of Savannah. This countyowned campground was my first along the coast. With my laundry spinning around in the washer,

smaller gulls and terns. They never budged as I got closer and squatted down cautiously among the bird droppings. Through the binoculars, it almost seemed as if I could reach out a finger to stroke the crazy yellow fuzz atop their heads. The brown pelican is anything but drab.

The pelicans were hunkered down, side by side, with their back ends halfway off the dock. Coarse, light-gray feathers, slick with water, cloaked their bodies. Their comically large bills, a muted grayish orange, stretched out far beyond their chests. They gazed at me with light

getting call was repeated, over and over. When he flapped up onto a log, I got a great look. A pleasing nut-brown, he was speckled with white all down his neck and body. A long curving yellowish-brown bill and dark legs com -

table sight. The lake already reminded me very much of home, with its pineclad shores and tiny islands. When a common loon called in the evening calm, my heart sang. The following day, imagine

raised or lowered. Great egrets clustered among Spanish moss, high in a live oak tree.

Later, an immature little blue heron—confusingly white—and an immature white ibis—mainly tan and brown—landed almost beak to beak. The youngsters stretched towards each other as if to say hello. A snowy egret, stalking the shallows, could be identified by his bright yellow feet at the end of long black legs.

Often, striking birds appeared unexpectedly.

Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest offered only tiny, round sinkhole ponds, so I ventured further afield, kayaking a tributary of the Conecuh River called Patsaliga Creek. Still within sight of the boat launch, I froze as a loud, screeching, vibrating call came from the woods. What in the world was that? Slowly, I drew out my camera.

A large, heron-like bird walked into view, tracing the perimeter of the woods. The attention-

pleted the picture. I was certain that I had never seen this bird before. It was a limpkin, at the very northern edge of its range, according to Cornell’s University’s website, All About Birds. In this area, the limpkin, which feeds primarily on apple snails, can be found in spring-fed river systems, where it is “very scarce and local.”

As my winter travels drew to a close, I paddled more and hiked less. Under the strong southern sun, I tackled the windiest conditions yet, and drifted in quiet coves surrounded by curious turtles, who would pop their heads above the water to check me out.

Along the GeorgiaSouth Carolina border, I camped at my first U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground, on mighty J. Strom Thurmond Lake. There, I saw an unforget-

my amazement when I observed a large group of loons, intermingled with herring gulls, cruising together far out on the water. Later, another conclave featured at least sixteen loons visible above the water at one time, meaning there were probably at least two dozen. I could hear their soft hoots and thought again of summer. Maine was calling me home.

Laurie Apgar Chandler is the author of Through Woods & Waters, which provides an adventurous look at Maine’s Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, and Upwards, the story of her 2015 solo self-propelled thru-paddle of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. To purchase the books, or read more about this journey, visit www.laurieachandler. com

The Perfect Picture

My blue kayak bobbed lethargically in the water as I dug through my tackle box to grab a lure. The borrowed pink Zebco pole in my hand was pointed skyward, its line lazily wafting in the breeze. The pond appeared flat and dead, with weeds and lily pads giving it a decomposing persona. In the shadow of my vessel, water reminiscent of a strong tea obscured my view to the bottom. Overhead, a ghostly sky was threatening to rain.

For the entire afternoon I sat, hypnotically expelling the bait from my rod and methodically dragging it back, occasionally getting hung up on a weed and moving halfway across the pond to remove my hook. I sighed and tried to force the hook into the pumpkin green plastic worm as flawlessly as I could. After poking my finger on the hook, I finally deemed it satisfactory, and prepared to cast. I drew back and took aim. I saw two clusters of lily pads and some aquatic grass off to the left, in front of the lilies. I drew back, pressed down on the button, and launched the bait. All was silent, save for my fishing line hissing off the spool. Soon it met the water, and when the lure connected with the lifeless surface of the pond, a splash of wa-

ter sprung skyward. Tiny droplets littered the body of water, tickling the sleeping surface. A ring of ripples pulsated from where the worm landed.

The pond was now a portal. I was operating on one side, trying to catch the eye of an underwater beast on the other. I had to move the fake worm as though it were a real worm; make it come to life. The green worm danced and twisted as it made its way through the red water. A shiny metal barb curved forward out

mouth. With one strong swing of the head, it swallowed the bait.

by Jake Guay, Phillips,

The behemoth opened its mouth. With a final bending motion, the burly monster put on a burst of speed and leveled with the worm. It turned and opened its mouth. With one strong swing of the head, it swallowed the bait.

of its midsection. It passed two lily pads, then a third, and then a fourth. A goldenbronze eye flickered on the pond’s dim bottom. Shadows from the lily pads concealed the smooth fish.

The beast’s eye twitched again, following the greenish worm gliding through the pond. The fish flexed the length of its body and gave chase. From behind and slightly to the side of the worm, its dark shadow hastily slithered forward to claim the morsel. The behemoth opened its mouth. With a final bending motion, the burly monster put on a burst of speed and leveled with the worm. It turned and opened its

A wrenching pull nearly dragged me out of the kayak. There was a fish on my line. I nervously started reeling. Excitement mounted as the hook and whatever it was dragging drew nearer to my rod. The spool filled up with fishing line. Finally, I drew the remaining line out of the water with my hand. A fish reminiscent of a dragon was held aloft by my hook, dripping with an ethereal gloss. It was exquisitely coated with a gradient the darkest of mosses on the dorsal region that faded quickly into a pale green that resembled the inside of a lime. All across the broad sides of the aquatic monster were blackish lattice patterns of calculated asymmetry, like those on the shore of a windy beach, or the patterns that can be

seen on the bottom of a swimming pool, undulating and overlapping each other. The fish looked at me with an alien, muddy eye rimmed with divine tones of bronze unmatched by any painting or drawing. The fish was a work of majesty. My catch, I then justified, was worthy of a celebration, however small. Why not take a picture? I anxiously reached into my pocket to grab my phone, and then I remembered. My mom made me leave it back at camp, probably for the best. She knew me well enough to take the precaution. There would be no visual record of this fish. No concrete documentation of its size. It would be lost to the lake forever, unknown to the world. But

then another idea caught my attention, just like the bass had done when it clamped its titanic maw onto my bait: I could write a picture of this fish! Every detail caught in the picture, each of the thousand words it would have painted and more would be told. There would be perfect lighting. No bad angles. I could tell the whole story; not just the ending. I released the fish and paddled back toward the dock. It’s common knowledge that a picture paints a thousand words. But, you probably noticed I didn’t post a picture with this column. This time, I’m betting on 800 words to do the job for me. I hope it did the trick!

Jacob Guay is a homeschooled teen who loves Creation as much as he loves to write. Curious readers can learn more by emailing him at jaguay26@gmail.com

Maine Outdoor Adventure

by Rich Yvon, Bradford, ME

Influence of a Maine Guide

If you live in the “County”, then you’re most likely to know about the reputed, William Wingate Sewall. Sewall, (18451930 ), was the first white child born in Island Falls, Maine. A truly exemplary Maine guide, Sewall had made his mark on the world by mentoring an American Icon, Theodore Roosevelt. During TR’s youth, a legendary friendship with Roosevelt and Sewall had been born in Island Falls, Maine. TR’s experience had been expressed in writing with his letter “My Debt to Maine” in 1918. From an early age, this vibrant young man’s life was greatly impacted by his time spent with the Sewall and Dow families. Adventuring in Maine with his guide, Bill Sewall, greatly influenced TR and inspired his future leadership, ethics, and conservation passions in our great country.

TR, born in York City, grew up in a privileged family in 1858. His early

childhood was plagued with asthma. His doctor had recommended spending time in the country and exercising. TR’s father, Theodore Senior, was beaten politically. TR was inspired to take on what his father had failed at, beating the political boss. His conservation spirit had also taken off at an early age where he went to Maine and was accepted into both the Sewall and Dow families. Learning ways of the wilderness in Maine had given TR life lessons as a woodsman and conservationist. In 1884, TR lost his wife Alice to kidney disease. In the wake of his personal losses, he then abandoned his life in New York and political ambitions, to pursue his romantic visions as a western cattle rancher.

For two years, TR brought along both Sewall, Dow and their families out west. They proceeded to venture into the cattle ranch business in Missouri. It

was, unfortunately, a bad, untimely economic time to start such a business. In 1886, TR returned to New York politics and the life he left behind. Losing the New York Mayor election, TR met his next wife, Edith. Becoming the New York police commissioner had launched TR into the White House as assistant secretary of the Navy. Leaving his commission, TR advocated for the Spanish-American war, which gave birth to the ”Rough Riders “and the win on San Juan Hill. After the war, TR’s New York governorship launched him to the Vice Presidency and then ultimately to the Presidency following the death of President McKinley’s murder. During this time, the Sewall and Dow families continued being a positive influence in visiting New York. The two families helped TR along his journey, keeping him grounded with a cherished friendship.

from his hunts in Africa, TR retired to his Sagamore Hill home. His accomplishments, attitude, ethics, and leadership stand the test of time. His life was influenced by wonderful people from Island Falls, Maine. Today, perhaps there are things we can learn from Maine Guide, Bill Sewall, and Theodore Roosevelt.

On the water lessons and hunting lessons are offered by Rich at https://twinmapleoutdoors.com/contact-us/

As always, remember to take a young person hunting or fishing to keep our outdoor heritage alive and well! In addition, please support your local tackle shops and small businesses!

Adventuring in Maine with his guide, Bill Sewall, greatly influenced TR and inspired his future leadership, ethics, and conservation passions in our great country.

•Hunting - Moose, Deer, Turkey, Partridge

The story of “the bear”, had made TR famous for the animal he did not shoot. The bear was old, treed and TR did not feel it was sportsman-like. The “Teddy Bear” was born! As he came home

If you would like more information on Maine hunting or ice, fly/spin fishing techniques/strategies for bass, pike, salmon, and trout, please feel to reach out to me. I’m always happy to share my knowledge and experience to anyone, for a better day of field!

For more information about the Maine outdoors, please contact Rich at: 207907-9151 or Email: info@ twinmapleoutdoors.com or Visit: www.twinmapleoutdoors.com

Rich is a full time Registered Master Maine Master Guide. He owns and operates Twin Maple Outdoors guide service and sporting lodge located in Bradford, Maine. He is a “Certified Yamaha G3 Guide” that runs fly and spin fishing trips with a G3 Jet boat and Stealthcraft drift boat. Rich also guides Maine Partridge, Turkey, Moose, Deer hunting and recreation adventures.

Left to right, TR, William Sewall, Wilmot Dow

Maine Woods Books to Read

Part Two: Dead River to Moosehead

This is the second part of my recommended list of Maine Books to locate and read. It includes central Maine from the Dead River Region to the Moosehead Lake and Piscataquis Region.

Dead River

Baldwin, Ruey Stevens, “There Was a Land,” Knowlton & McCleary, Farmington, Me., 1999

*Bishop, Heber, “Guide to Megantic, Spider and Upper Dead River,” Holman House, 1887

Ducette, Earle, “For Fishermen Only,” abt. 1959

Knowles, Joseph, “Alone in the Wilderness,” Small, Maynard & Co., Boston, 1913

Motavalli, Jim, “Naked in the Woods, Joseph Knowles and the Legacy of Frontier Fakery” Da Capo, 2007

Robinson, Arthur W.,

“Sportsman’s & Tourists’ Guide Book of the Dead River Region of Maine,” 1884

Stearns, Marshall, “Along the Trail,” 1936

Upper Kennebec River

Calvert, Mary R.,

“Black Robe on the Kennebec,” Monmouth Press, 1991

Calvert, Mary R.

“Dawn over the Kennebec,” Twin City Printery, Lewiston, Me., 1983

Coatsworth, Elizabeth, “The Enchanted, An Incredible Tale,” Pantheon Books (1951, reprint 1992)

*Ellis, Edward Sylvester, “A Hunt on SnowShoes,” J. Winston Co, 1906 (Young Adult Fiction)

MacDougall, Arthur R. wrote about 15 books

Yarns,” 1934; “If it Returns with Scars,” 1942; “Where Flows the Kennebec.” 1947; “Dud Dean and the Enchanted,” 1954.

MacDougall, Walter M., “The Old Somerset Railroad” (2000); “ Remembering Dud Dean: Arthur MacDougall’s Famous Tales of Everybody’s Favorite Maine Guide ,” Countryman Press (2001)

Roberts, Kenneth.

“Arundel

Roberts, Kenneth, “March to Quebec, Journals of the Members of Arnold’s Expedition,” Doubleday, 1946

Springer, John, “The Daring Backwoodsman, A tale of the Kennebec,” Munroe’s 10 Cent Novels, No. 67, June 16, 1866.

Piscataquis &

During its annual meeting in Kennebunkport, the New England Outdoor Writers Association (NEOWA) awarded six $2,000.00 Carl Braun scholarships to wildlife majors from all of the New England land grant colleges. Pictured left to right are: Denny Corriveau, NEOWA president; Erin Camire, Vermont; Angel Checo-Reynoso, Massachusetts; Zoe Pavlik, Maine; Eleora McKay, New Hampshire; Jonathan Marshall, Connecticut; Matt Dunlap, Scholarship Committee Chair. NEOWA, which promotes wildlife conservation and professionalism in outdoor communications, has been awarding scholarships for many years.

“The Kennebec Wilderness Awakens,” Twin City Printery, 1986

Duplessis, Shirley, “Hidden in the Woods, The Stoy of Kokad-jo,” Moosehead Communications, 1997

*Farrar, Charles A. J. “Guide to Moosehead Lake, Katahdin Iron Works and Vicinity, the North Maine Wilderness,”1878

Fournier, Paul J. “Tales from Misery Ridge,” Islandport Press, 2011

*Hubbard, Lucius L. “Summer Vacations at Moosehead Lake and Vicinity,” 1879

Ferland, Durward J. Jr., “Kineo, Splendor and Silence,” Moosehead Communications, 1996

MacDougall, Walter M. “Settling the Maine Wilderness,” Osher Map

Maine

Pinkham

Library, 2006

Parker, Everett L. “Moosehead Reflections,” (1995); “The Moosehead Lake Region, 1900-1952,” 2005

Sawtelle, Bill. An ambitious Brownville author who penned over forty books on various aspects of the Piscataquis and Upper Penobscot Region. For a list of his many books, check out the website of the Maine State Library, click on Maine Writers and type Bill Sawtelle.

*Way, John, “Guide to Moosehead Lake and Northern Maine, with Map,” (1874)

Wilson, Dorothy Clarke, “The Big-Little World of Doc Pritham. McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1971

617-407-0743

steve@oldtalesofthemainewoods.com

www.oldtalesofthemainewoods.com

Letters

(Cont. from pg 8)

Mills New Gun Control Law

To the Editor:

SAM is suing the State of Maine in hopes of overturing the new 72 hour waiting period. The new law is just another step in eradicating Maine’s legacy of firearm ownership and hunting. The law will cause economic harm, e.g. the Old Town Trading Post may close its doors and the Kittery Trading Post may move to New Hampshire, but the bigger impact will be to Maine’s culture: Gun Shows will cease and the organizations that the gun show money supports will suffer. Out of state hunters will find other places to spend their money (many already have because the “bucks only” law had unintended consequences for the deer herd in the North Maine Woods). Fewer out of state hunters means Maine’s iconic (but fragile) sporting camp industry will suffer. Maine

guides will see fewer customers.

Remember: Rep Golden wants to ban “assault rifles”, also known as deer rifles.

I will be supporting SAM. They needed to raise ~$250,000 to pay for the suit. Every donation counts.

Talk to your employer - big donations will be needed.

PS - think this law would not affect you? What if you need a new gun in a hurry? Guns break. Guns can be stolen. Sometimes people go on a hunting trip and forget their guns or the airline loses their gun. What if you are gunless and suddenly need a gun? Maybe you could ask the bad guy to wait 72 hours while you get a gun?

Randall Poulton

Thoughts On Gun Control

To the Editor: I will preface my words by saying that I am a multiple gun owner and strongly support our hunt-

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ing and outdoor heritage. Having said that, our founding fathers did not intend to promote or allow school shootings, church shootings, movie shootings, concert shootings and those in Sandy Hook elementary school, Baltimore, Oklahoma, Arizona, Buffalo, Uvalde Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Virginia, and the list goes on. The recent mass shooting in Lewiston Maine where 18 people were mercilessly killed, and 13 injured, represents a national crisis and epidemic that must be immediately curtailed to keep our citizens safe.

There is zero connection between the second amendment that allowed us to defend our nation against British intervention and the gun lobby’s contention that promotes the widespread purchase of guns to be used for any reason. For those who don’t want to know, the second amendment says “The right to bear arms should be given only to organized groups like the National Guard, and a reserve military force that replaced the state militia after the Civil War.”

Mass shootings, defined as three or more deaths at one time, have occurred in 2023 at an average rate of two per day. Many contend that solving mental health issues, controlling drugs, better communication between law enforcement agen -

cies, if you see something say something, etc., will solve the problem. All very important, but it is impossible to keep track of 330 plus million Americans’ mental state 24/7 and being human, things can happen at any time that will affect behavior.

Let’s get back to basics. The most efficient and effective item that kills, other than bombs, is a wellplaced bullet and in the case of major mass shootings, most were fired from assault rifles, fundamentally weapons of war. Automatic weapons are banned, but assault weapons with high capacity magazines and devices like bump stocks that allow them to become semi- automatic must be banned immediately.

Opponents will tell you that with over 400 million weapons in circulation, it won’t make a difference. This critically needed law won’t be an immediate solution for preventing mass shootings, but it will be an obvious step to move us in the right direction, as well as having the high probability of saving at least one or more lives annually.

If you don’t think that’s important, just consider it being your life or one of your loved ones.

The National Rifle Association with its deep pockets filled by weapon manufacturers using the second amendment as a patriotic catch phrase to

sell and put more guns into circulation, refuse to support basic common sense gun control legislation and instead channeled millions of dollars, estimated at $60 million in the 2016 election, to legislators whose most important endeavor is to get re-elected with no concern for the safety of Americans, including our school children.

But there’s no problem the NRA will tell you with its twisted logic because the more guns in circulation the safer we’ll be, adding its ignorant statement that “guns don’t kill people, people kill people.”

A BDN op-ed on 1116-23 noted that persons who are investigated can still keep their guns as allowed by the harmful and ineffective Yellow Flag Law.

In conclusion, the only answer to keep our people safe is an enforced Red Flag Law where those being investigated will have their weapons immediately confiscated, but subsequently returned if there is no indication of a problem.

P..S. Many moons ago, an old gent made it clear that two organizations would be responsible for the ultimate decline of our once great nation; the NRA and the ACLU. How prophetic!

Joe Bertolaccini Orrington

Micro Finesse is Fun

By now most of the fish population has spawned, vegetation has grown, and the activity level within the underwater world is alive with huge amounts of fish fry. Female spawners of every species eagerly pursue nourishment to rebuild their physical strength as the cycle of sub-surface life witnesses an abundant growth in population.

It’s also one of the very best times to introduce youngsters into the educational side of the sport of “fishing”! While, at the same time teaching them to observe the transitional changes taking place beneath the surface. Calm surfaces entice feeding opportunities, smaller species explode engulfing bugs, while larger predators are chasing schools of fry along rip rap. Many times, corralling fry, and themselves out of the water unto the banks.

taught me one major key factor. Every kid wants to be involved within the action! Be it, catching a fly ball, or hitting the ball for a base hit playing baseball, kicking the soccer ball, and scoring a goal, shooting the basketball into the net. Or casting the line on their

Author’s grandson Oliver decides to go fishing. (Photo by Patricia Decoteau)

has been a major positive game-changer! The durability of ElaZtech plastic allows us to catch fish after fish without having to change baits all the time. In fact, just one ZMan ElaZtech Micro Finesse Shad FryZ lasted an entire week, before a Northern Pike broke Oliver’s line. Additionally, these ElaZtech baits don’t keep slipping down the hook on mis-fired cast either.

Obviously, catching fish is the ultimate goal, these 1.75 to 2.0inch Micro Finesse baits match the hatch perfectly, enticing Bluegills, Crap -

Best Bassin’

by Bill Decoteau, Hampden, MA

ows decides to engulf your ZMan Micro Finesse bait. (www.ZmanFishing.com)

I spool my small Lew’s ultra-light spinning reel with Seaguar 101 TACTX Braid/Camo and 6 lb. Fluoro leader. While Oliver’s reel is spooled with Seaguar BASIX 8 lb. Fluoro. For swimming retrieves we impale our ZMan Shad FryZ unto the ZMan Micro Shad HeadZ size 1/32 or 1/16 oz. with four colors available, Pink, Glow, Chartreuse

oz. red ShroomZ with a StingerZ or LarvaZ Micro Finesse bait.

Casting accuracy is a very important, but it takes practice. Oliver and I have developed a casting game where we look for fish targets and then start casting. We quickly learned that being on target spooks the fish. But if we cast pass the fish and swim our bait slowly to the fish, we are often able to entice the fish to eat our bait. While scanning for isolated fish

Utilizing ZMan Fishing’s 10X Strong ElaZtech Micro Finesse baits has been a major positive game-changer! The durability of ElaZtech plastic allows us to catch fish after fish without having to change baits all the time.

My personal experience over the years of coaching youth sports has

own fishing pole, reeling in, and catching a fish by themselves. Always remember it must be fun. Applying these concepts with my sons and now with my grandson Oliver has been very rewarding. Utilizing ZMan

Fishing’s 10X Strong ElaZtech Micro Finesse baits

pie, Yellow Perch, White Perch, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Northern Pike of all sizes. Including trout or any other species that swims within your water. When it comes to balanced tackle, the key word is “Ultra-Light”. Spinning rods and reels or pushbutton spin-cast add to the excitement of battling even the smallest Bluegill. However, be certain to adjust your drag for when that largemouth bass that has been hiding in the shad -

and Black, Oliver gets to choose our colors. These jig heads are designed for ElaZtech baits, keeping them pegged solidly in place. ( www.Seaguar. com, www.Lews.com)

One outstanding feature of ZMan’s 10X Strong ElaZtech is its inherited buoyancy feature. When the fish decide not to chase our swimming retrieve, this is when we turn to ZMan’s Micro Finesse ShroomZ jig head. Available in four sizes and colors we normally rig a 1/10 or 1/15

targets we talk about how the fish utilize these in a variety of ways. Bass will hide in clumps of grass waiting and watching for the perfect opportunity to chase smaller fish. Early season small fry will hide within the rip rap and also swim together in large schools. Yellow Perch and White Perch travel in large schools, so when you catch one keep casting to enjoy their feeding frenzy.

The Buck Hunter

by Hal Blood, Moose River, ME

Summer is once again upon us. To a hunter, this means the fall seasons are getting closer. I enjoy summer and the renewal it brings to the woods and waters. A lot of my summer is spent getting ready for fall and winter. It seems

and shooting. This month, I’ll expand that into woods shooting. As I said, shooting is far different than range or open country shooting. Even getting a shot at a deer in the woods is challenging. Deer are like ghosts in the woods.

Running Shot Techniques

stand hunters, you are more likely to get a standing or walking shot. It may sound simple, but there are still a lot of factors involved. Deer generally walk and stop frequently. They have an uncanny ability to be behind something when they do. The further away a deer is from you, the more trees there are. Because of this unless the deer stops

If you only hear a deer go, you have to try to see it. You may only see glimpses of a white tail or a brown body when it jumps between trees. I am always focused on seeing the head to make sure it’s a buck while my gun is coming up and swinging the direction the deer is going.

like I’m just getting the flower and vegetable gardens ready for my wife and then I’m pulling them back out. I don’t know where the time goes, but it surely disappears. Bear baiting begins at the end of July and that signals that fall will soon arrive. Until then, there are fish to be caught, barbecues to have, and vacations to go on. In between all of it, we’ll all be thinking about deer hunting and preparing for the adventures to come.

Last month I wrote about trigger techniques

They can appear and disappear in seconds. Sometimes it is as though they vanish into thin air. They blend into the woods perfectly with their dull brown and gray colors. Most trees are gray and leaves are brown and on top of that, there are plenty of blow-downs, fir thickets, and brush to hide behind and break up their outline. Even with snow on the ground, deer are not easy to see in the woods.

Let’s start out with the shots that you are most likely to get. Since most hunters are either still hunters or

Greenville

in the open, you’re most likely going to have to shoot while it is walking. The best and most accurate way to shoot at moving deer, or any animal for that matter is to swing onto it and follow along with bead or crosshair centered on the shoulder until it clears and trees or brush and snap the trigger. Do not stop your swing. Continue swinging while chambering another round and prepare for a follow up shot. If you stop your swing or forward motion, your shot will be back. Even a walking deer can move a foot or more in the time you snap the trigger. by maintaining your swing, you will hit exactly

where your bead or crosshair is. That is unless you hit a twig or branch, which will happen quite often. If you are tracking or even still hunting, there will be times when a deer has jumped from its bed or from behind some cover. This is where learning how to shoot running game will come in handy. Do not shoot at running deer unless you know how and have practiced enough to be confident in your ability. Too many deer are wounded every year and left to die miserably and go

Hal jumped this buck at 20 yards while still hunting and gave him one shot to the neck running away.

to waste, by hunters who just sling lead when they are running away. Duck and grouse hunters take a lot of time and practice to get good at wing shooting. Birds fly a lot faster than a deer can run, but practice makes them relatively easy to shoot. It’s the same way when shooting a running deer. With practice, it is not all that hard to do.

Basically, you use the same method as you would with a walking deer, except that things are happening a lot faster, and you have to

(Shot cont. pg 57)

My Biggest Surprise

This past April I had, what must have been, the biggest surprise of my life. It was a very pleasant one! First, a little background: It has long been a tradition in our family

big surprise began. Up the road ahead of us, in front of the house were a line of several cars. Kinda unusual in that quiet neighborhood. When I saw it I remember remarking to

to celebrate birthdays and other occasions by getting together for a dinner, lunch or whatever. The gathering generally consists of Dot and I, our three children, Michael, Kathy and Julie, along with any grandchildren who might be available at the time.

My birthday falls in mid April, so it was no great surprise to me when Kathy called to say we would all meet at her house on Sunday to celebrate my birthday. I had reached an age where I would brag about my age rather than lie about it. I would be 90. So, on Sunday Dot and I left home to drive to Kathy’s house. In roughly one half hour later, as we approached her home, my

all, but some I hadn’t seen for a long, long time. I won’t try to name them all, because I would probably leave someone out, but I knew some of them traveled a long ways to be there and it kind of floored me thinking about it.

I made my way around the group just to say, “Hi” and then went off to a chair facing the fire to sit down and try to take it all in. I was soon joined at

Northwoods

by Gil Gilpatrick, Brunswick, ME Voyager

screen was Marilyn ready to talk to me. You gotta admire some of today ’s technology when you get to talk to someone face to face from about 1500 miles away.

There seemed to be no end to the surprises. Out came my birthday cake and there in the middle of it was

all understand and realize how much I appreciated them for taking the time and making the effort to be there with me for my ninethieth.

When I saw it I remember remarking to Dot, “what in the world is going on?” Once we pulled into the yard and I got our dog, Sukey, out of the car I started to get the idea that this was not just an ordinary family get-together.

Dot, “what in the world is going on?” Once we pulled into the yard and I got our dog, Sukey, out of the car I started to get the idea that this was not just an ordinary family get-together. I was led into the back yard where a fire was going and there were more people there than I wanted to count. But, I knew them

the fire by my old friend Dick Mosher who had driven down with his wife Judy from Fairfield Center. We had lived close to each other for over 30 years so it was a treat to see them and to talk over a lot of “stuff” that we had shared over the years of hunting, fishing and just plain hanging out in the woods.

My brother David was there along with several members of his family. I had not seen him since the past summer, when our sister, Marilyn was up from Alabama for a visit. Speaking of Marilyn, I was surprised when Kathy appeared in front of me hold up her phone. There on the

First Day of Summer!

June 20th

my canoe logo from my guiding days on the rivers of Maine. The cake was cut and I hope everyone enjoyed a slice. I did! We had a great meal prepared by my family and one by one the people all left. As they departed I felt a little pang of guilt that I had not had the time to talk more to each of them more in depth, but there were just too many there for that to happen in the time available. I just hope they

Gil Gilpatrick is a Master Maine Guide, and is the first living recipient of the Legendary Maine Guide award. He is a life member of the Maine Professional Guides Association, a founding member of the Maine Wilderness Guides Organization, and served as a member of the Advisory Board for the Licensing of Guides from 1996 to 2010. He is a member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association and is the author of seven outdoorrelated books. Contact him at Gil@GilGilpatrick.com

South Of the

Kennebec

by Stu Bristol, Lyman, ME

jigging.

Hanging a Harry

Hanging a lure in fishing guide lingo is simply trolling or dragging bait behind a moving boat. It can be a live minnow, smelt or any sort of wobble spoon such as a Mooselook Wobbler or stick bait in the Rapala class. New Hampshire anglers have been hanging the “Harry Lure” around Lake Winnipesaukee and other lakes for trout salmon for more than 30 years.

I recently spent a day fishing on Square Pond in southern Maine with Adam Bergeron kadventuresofmaine.com to get a firsthand look at the lure and how it is presented. With surface temperatures hovering at just under fifty degrees, I had little hope for success, but my goal was to see this lure close-up and in the water.

Years ago, trolling a bait or lure was confined to heavy leadcore line and long leaders. Modern downriggers and sonar electronics have now taken much of the guesswork out of early season angling.

While it may seem like easy work, the blips on the screen don’t necessarily mean fish are going to roll into the boat. Finding the depth at which baitfish are swarming is key and electronics do a great job of

Developed by Bedford, New Hampshire angler, Harry Ellison the “Harry” sets itself apart from other lures when it comes to trolling. Instead of the traditional side-to-side action of the lure the Harry does a vertical shimmy, allowing it to be trolled at any speed without fear of rolling over.

Thanks to his recent acquisition, West Kennebunk Registered Maine Guide, Adam Bergeron the Harry lure has found a new home in Maine.

Developed by Bedford, New Hampshire angler, Harry Ellison the “Harry” sets itself apart from other lures when it comes to trolling. Instead of the traditional side-toside action of the lure the Harry does a vertical shimmy, allowing it to be trolled at any speed without fear of rolling over. This action allows the angler to use other baits at the same time without having to slow down the speed to stop wobble spoons from turning over.

Its unique curved shape is unlike any lure I’ve seen as are the rows of indents or dots. The body of the lure comes in either copper or nickel and is finished off with an o-ring and treble hook. I tested lures in the ¼ -ounce and 1/8- ounce weights.

As an outdoor writer and Master Maine Guide I have field tested most of the popular fishing lures for national magazines, especially those involved in trolling for trout and salmon. The Mooselook Wobbler, Al’s Goldfish and Mepps to name just a few. It didn’t take long to realize the Harry is more than just a hanging lure but does a great job of casting and

ter to create a commotion works well and hanging a drift sock over the right side of the bow to slow things down are just two good tips. With early season water temperatures below optimum and a cold wind blowing across the lake with an approaching cold front. We still landed a

of the Harry to most of the larger outlets. I found them at the Kittery Trading Post and, of course, online at www.theharrylure.com. My practice of never taking a manufacturer’s word for the value of a product is key to my evaluation of the Harry Lure. With thousands of shiny objects lining the shelves

determining depth. Balls of baitfish such as smelt usually means game fish are close at hand but getting lures to match that depth is another problem.

Key to bait or lure dragging is to get the offering just above eye level of the gamefish. Leadcore line has a deep belly when trolled so the angler needs to run the boat slowly enough to allow the line to drop below the fish but fast enough to present an action that is appealing to gamefish.

Even with a downrigger the angler needs to adjust speed and depth to just the right proportions. When that is achieved fish can still be stubborn and pass on everything you offer.

Adam understands this problem and showed me a few guide secrets to get the fish in the mood. Can’t tell you all of them if I ever want to fish with him again but slamming the landing net into the wa-

keeper brown trout, which we chose to release.

Back in the office I began the chore of finding previous users of the Harry and it didn’t take long. Not only did I find New Hampshire guides and anglers eager to praise the lure, there were those fishing on Vermont’s Lake Champlain and small pond anglers in Massachusetts.

I was surprised at the number of anglers who reported great catches using the Harry by casting along the shoreline or jigging through the ice. I have no doubt that this lure will find its place in history alongside the legendary offerings.

Adam is in the process of expanding distribution

of tackle stores the Harry Lure and Adam Bergeron have their work cut out for them. As for me, I’ve seen enough to add this lure to my front line arsenal and I am eager to further test its reputation as a casting and jigging lure. I will keep you posted.

Stu Bristol is a Master Maine Hunting, Fishing and Tidewater Guide and Outdoor Writer. His features have been published nationwide for more than 60 years. He also is a master game call builder, www. deadlyimpostergamecalls. com He was inducted into the New England Wild Turkey Hunting Hall of Fame in 2019.

Courtesy The Harry Lure Company

Mushroom Cloud

Nothing soaks up bean juice like a hot biscuit.

It was Thanksgiving week and the whole crew was into camp. Ray, camp cook, had whipped up a batch of biscuits to go with the yellow eye baked beans, fresh coleslaw and deer steak. After supper we played several rounds of six- handed cribbage and hit the sack early. For breakfast we had deer steak, yellow eye baked beans, left over biscuits and fried eggs.

That morning I was hunting off the north end of Sand Pond. There was no fresh sign so I crossed Heath Brook at the beaver dam and moved uphill. This area is a bunch of humps and knobs and the deer run in circles. I picked up the red line and followed it to the top of a little hummock.

I found a place to sit when it hit me. A sense of urgency that surpasses all other emotions. Coleslaw, beans and I’m pretty sure there were some pick -

led eggs before supper all came to a crescendo. The Remington found a tree as the coat was coming off. Suspenders and belt gave way, wool pants and long johns dropped as the volcano in my digestive track erupted. Everything below my stomach came out in one massive convulsion.

I became conscious of the fact that I was hanging onto a tree, instinct had taken over here.

In the milliseconds that followed I found first relief then the realization that my pack had dropped with my coat and I had not retrieved the paper.

As I turned my head to locate the pack a mushroom cloud arose from the puddle which had formerly been my supper. My breath caught in my throat and I fought the urge to empty the contents of my stomach through the orifice from which it had been acquired.

I duckwalked in the direction of the pack, gasping for air. Thankfully the stub roll of paper stored in a ziploc was on top. After

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a few minutes I dug out the back up roll of paper from the inside pocket of my coat. I put myself back together, covered everything up, moved about ten yards away and was trying to decide what to do next. I can’t stay here, everything downwind for a half mile will be tainted.

As I determined to move upwind, I heard

We stood there chuckling in deep voices hoping the menu would be less volatile that night when behind to my left I heard a noise. I turned expecting to see another cousin and there was a fat doe look-

I found a place to sit when it hit me. A sense of urgency that surpasses all other emotions. Coleslaw, beans and I’m pretty sure there were some pickled eggs before supper all came to a crescendo.

sound. Freezing in place I looked back down the line I had come in on and saw orange. I waited expecting them to hit the mushroom cloud at any minute. Cousin Jim came right through without twitching a nose. Turns out he had had the same issue earlier and was concerned that he may have permanently damaged his sense of smell.

ing right at me. I swung up the 308 and that deer took two steps and stuck her head behind a tree like an ostrich. The peep sight found hair just behind the shoulder and I let it go. Jim swung to the right and I hung a pink flag where I stood. I paced off one

Tales Of A Maine Woodsman

by Joel F. Tripp Limington, ME

hundred feet and found hair and a spot of blood. Fifty feet away Jim called “got her”.

Now, why was that deer there? She came from downwind. If she was drawn to it then I should have shot a lot more deer. Maybe it was shock and she was just stupefied. We will never know.

For supper that night Ray made a fresh batch of biscuits to go with the yellow eye baked beans, fresh coleslaw and liver.

Joel F. Tripp is a Maine Woodsman and Master Blacksmith who always carries a compass, hand forged hunting knife, fire starter and toilet paper. For more information go to; trippsend.com

Labyrinthia Guest House

Ripley, Maine

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Private Rooms in a beautiful country setting where breakfast is served. Entire house available for deer camp. Near ATV and winter trails. For reservations use Airbnb or call direct for full-house pricing, discounts and availability. (207) 270-1744 Labyrinthia@yahoo.com

Fly fishing in June is always an exciting time. The weather is usually warming up and the hatches in New Hampshire start to really get going in full swing. I always look forward to the Alder fly hatch on the Androscoggin River. That stretch from Errol to Milan has a tremendous hatch each year.

The hatch usually is

Slipstream

By Scott Biron, New London, NH

it’s often easier if you catch the very beginning or the very end. There are not as many bugs on the water and your chances often are increased. The trout will be looking for food and sometimes are less selective.

In the middle of the hatch when there are tons of bugs on the water you get tested as an angler.

Reading the water, feeding

June Alder Hatch Fishing

to lay their eggs. The trout were having a great time feeding. I caught a few right away and when I looked back at Chuck, he was into a nice one which makes fishing your first Alder hatch memorable. Throughout the day we caught and released over 40 brook trout between us.

At lunch we shared techniques that worked and our friend Rick swung by reporting similar success only he was catching rainbows downstream from us.

In the middle of the hatch when there are tons of bugs on the water you get tested as an angler. Reading the water, feeding lanes and having the right fly becomes very important. Every year there is a slight curveball that gets thrown to us.

around Father’s Day but there is no hard and fast rule on that. The weather does play into the hatch, how long it is and how it behaves. I know anglers that have kept records on this hatch for years. Some guide friends of mine plan some of the best guiding trips during the hatch.

I try to get on the river a few times during the hatch with my friend Chuck. People always ask me when is the best time to fish the hatch and what are the best flies to use. If you have never fished the hatch,

lanes and having the right fly becomes very important. Every year there is a slight curveball that gets thrown to us. Several years ago, Chuck and I fished the hatch, it was his first time. I gave him a few flies that had been successful in the past and gave him a few tips on fishing them. He’s an excellent angler so I was quite sure he would do just fine.

This particular year the bugs on the water were excessive. Everywhere you looked the Alders were coming off or coming back

Last year when Chuck and I fished the Alders were near the shore, buzzing around the trees and we could count the flies coming off the water. It was the polar opposite of the previous year.

We got out on the river and began landing rainbows right and left. It was overcast and when the sun came out the Alders came off the water but when the clouds rolled back in they stayed off the water and in the trees. We took a few breaks to give our legs a rest and discussed strate-

gies. I decided I would switch to my 4 wt rod and increase the challenge. I also change up the size of my fly increasing it in size. Third cast I noticed a fish feeding just off to one side of me but very close. The Androscoggin has some

sat near the truck and had lunch but our focus went back to the river. Fish were still feeding, the drift boats had moved in with their afternoon sports. They were not having much luck from what we could see. Maybe they didn’t have the right fly or the right sized fly.

unique challenges with currents and casting over them can make your hair hurt. After a few casts to figure the current out I dropped my fly in a lane that would get it near the feeding fish. Bang the fish hit the fly hard and began to run. I kept repeating to myself you have the 4 wt don’t be too aggressive. The click paw reel was screaming and after what seemed like forever I had a 17” brown trout in my net. I slid the fly out of its mouth and gave it a minute or two to revive itself and let it go. We wrapped up the day having caught all rainbows and that one big brown trout. When we

We will be on the river this year again and will report back on how we do.

Scott Biron learned to tie flies and fly fish back in the1960s in the North County of New Hampshire. He has fished many of the streams north of Route 26 in NH and his favorite the Androscoggin River. He is a Master Artist in the NH Traditional Arts Program and instructs fly tying both nationally and internationally. He is on the Ambassador Pro Team for HMH Vises and Partridge of Redditch. Ewing has come out with a signature series line of feathers under Scott’s name.

Field Trial and Hunt Test Bloodlines

Gun Dog Labs

Owls Head, Maine

Can’t See It? Pay Attention

“What the heck,” I wondered aloud while browsing lures, “is a hellgrammite, anyway?” Like many water bugs, it’s the larval stage of a fly. Like almost all water bugs, fish like to eat them, which is why we imitate them and cleverly conceal hooks in their little fake abdo mens.

In real life, the hellgram mite follows an existential tra jectory similar to the mayfly. Like the may fly nymph, it spends almost its entire life cycle under wa ter, living only a few days as the emerged, adult Eastern Dobsonfly, a giant nocturnal flying bug with a wingspan of up to five inches that only lives long enough to mate and lay eggs before expiring.

a target species. While carefully selecting where to cast when we wander about streamside, we’re looking for something. Whether we’re fishing for smallmouth bass in the Penobscot River, as I do

linger and rest, or in the shade of leafy overhangs in small ponds near the edge of the water.

Fish, fur, or fowl: Why are they where we find them? Typically, they’re either feeding or resting, or moving between the two. Hunters are most active when game is most active, and that’s during the mating rut; fishing is a bit simpler, because fish spend

The devoted fly fisherman who ties his own flies doubtless has plenty of mayfly imitations at both larval and adult stages of the life cycle; bass fishermen love hellgrammite imitations, which was what got me thinking about these strange water denizens as I

by Matthew Dunlap, Old Town, ME

injustice that just as the creature reaches its apex state after surviving years in tough conditions, evading predators, and eating about anything it can grab, including bait fish, it’s all over in the few days of the mating cycle, whereas other larval-to-flying crea-

In the microcosm of a brook plunge pool, that brook trout is an apex predator. The treats they’re on the hunt for include critters we don’t think much about unless we’re imitating them; bait fish, larval-stage flies, and even freshwater shellfish like crayfish.

a lot of their time feeding. If we can make a hook look like something a fish wants to eat, we do pretty well in filling our creels.

When we go fishing, we focus sharply on

for much of midsummer, or wandering along a quiet forest brook for brook trout in spring and early fall, we look for waters that look fishy; plunge pools, small eddies that spin into back currents where fish will

In the microcosm of a brook plunge pool, that brook trout is an apex predator. The treats they’re on the hunt for include critters we don’t think much about unless we’re imitating them; bait fish, larval-stage flies, and even freshwater shellfish like crayfish.

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was getting my fishing gear together this spring. It’s amazing how long hellgrammites and mayfly nymphs live in that stage—for the hellgrammite, once they hatch from an egg cluster attached to a branch over water and drop in, they can live up to five years before crawling out of the water to begin their metamorphosis into the Dobsonfly, and party with all they have until the end. It seems like a cruel

tures like Monarch butterflies, for example, live long enough to fly non-stop across the Gulf of Mexico. Like Dobsonflies, the mayfly—in all of its many varieties—spends its entire one to two-day adulthood looking for mates, and then dropping off into eternity. I remember plenty of early summer nights coming out of one of the restaurants I worked in, stunned by the sudden ap(Attention cont. pg 57)

Here it is, early April and I am trying to file a column about the glories of June. There is just one problem: It is snowing like hell, a heavy, wet snow that the forecast warns may bring yet another power outage.

This was, of course, a mild winter by Vermont standards. We didn’t get a major snow storm until late in March. Imagine. Now, only days later, another storm. What the hell?

Vermont Ramblings

by Dennis Jensen, Vermont

there are no rules, at least for this writer.)

January was well, not too much to write about. I had plans to take the boys and three grandsons to a smaller lake, with a cabin right at the water, for three days of ice fishing. But the ice was not safe so we scrapped those plans.

But December, oh December was just what I needed. I tagged a young buck during the muzzleloader season

Well, complaining about the weather is like complaining about your mother-in-law. Nothing is going to come of it.

But June will arrive and with that in mind, let’s talk about something different, maybe a look back at the kind of year we had in 2023. (I know; this kind of topic would be best served in January but, hey,

Too bad. How poor were ice conditions? The Lions Club cancelled its annual ice fishing derby on Lake Bomoseen, one of the biggest derbies of the year, because of dangerous ice conditions.

On March 12, I ventured over to the Castleton Town Hall where a large crowd gathered in opposition of a plan to dump chemicals into the best fishing lake inside the borders of Vermont, Lake Bomoseen. As of this date, the fools pushing to poison

A Very Good Year

this lake have been unsuccessful. Stay tuned.

In April, I underwent a second hip surgery in seven months, this one on the right side. I had walked with a cane, in pain, for

in recovery so the spring turkey season came and went. Late in June, Dan and I headed to Vegas and the World Series of Poker. Dan cashed in the Senior Event and that meant that father

two years. Now, a year later, I am preparing my body to climb back on that mountain bike, sometime in May, by hitting the gym three times a week. Presently, I am riding a stationary bike, 10 miles at a time, three times a week.

May and we’re still

and son both cashed in that event two out of the last three years. Not too shabby. Those annual striper trips to Maine in July and August did not happen, for the first time in more than 20 years, for a variety of reasons, mostly because I am still using a cane as I

https://www.voga.org/

recover from surgery. September and I’m back on the mountain bike, putting in some 10 to 12 miles every other day. One early-October afternoon, just four hours after finishing my bike run on the rail trail that runs from Castleton to Poultney, a 77-yearold former dean from Castleton State University, was found dead, shot in the back of the head. The person who killed Honoree Fleming, a woman adored by the community, is still at large.

After three strange hot days in late October, I managed to shoot a doe on the last day of the fall muzzleloader season. I am grateful for I got little time in the deer woods over the two earlier years.

Hunted hard, 12 out of 16 days of the firearms buck season in November. Saw four does in that time. But December, oh December was just what I needed. I tagged a young buck during the muzzleloader season. That means two deer in the freezer and the first time, in a long time, that I managed to tag two deer in Vermont in one year.

To quote old Blue Eyes, “It was a very good year.”

Dennis Jensen is a freelance writer in Vermont.

Vermont’s Campaign To Stop Invasives

Sportsmen, others who recreate in the outdoors, and all those who appreciate our forests can help stop the spread of invasive plants, insects and diseases.

An educational campaign underway is a collaborative effort between University of Vermont Extension, Vermont Department of Forests, Parks

emerald ash borer and beech leaf disease because of the important roles that hemlock, ash, and beech play in supporting habitat for wildlife and in keeping streams cool.

Check your vehicles.

Spotted lanternfly is more of a pest of open spaces and forest edges, but it can devastate grape vineyards and make outdoor recre -

Vermont Urban and Community Forestry, which is a partnership between UVM Extension and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation funded by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

The following three websites she recommends provide a wealth of information to help us avoid spreading invasive.

Hunters and anglers should be especially concerned about spreading hemlock woolly adelgid, emerald ash borer and beech leaf disease because of the important roles that hemlock, ash, and beech play in supporting habitat for wildlife and in keeping streams cool.

and Recreation, and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.

The campaign encourages people to take three steps to help prevent or slow the spread of invasive plants, insects, and diseases that can harm the forests we love.

Clean your gear is number one. Boots, backpacks and mountain bikes can all transport seeds of invasive plants. Tiny insects such as hemlock woolly adelgid, or the eggs of jumping worms, or the spores of fungal diseases can be easily transported from an infested forest to one that isn’t on your gear.

Don’t move firewood. Firewood can move insects and diseases that we can’t see from infested to uninfested locations. Rather than bringing your own firewood to camp, purchase it or gather it where you will be burning it.

Hunters and anglers should be especially concerned about spreading hemlock woolly adelgid,

ation very unpleasant in more open settings. They can quickly spread from an infested state.

The adults will lay their egg masses, which look like dried putty or mud on any surface including wheel wells, and campers.

They are already in southern New England. Since 2016 it has been illegal to import untreated firewood into Vermont.

Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Connecticut also have strict regulations on the movement of firewood into their states.

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation just released the Vermont Forest Invasive Pest Status Map, https:// experience.arcgis.com/ex perience/4a3efe4febd24 254947e600372793632/ page/Statewide-Status/, for tracking some (not all) forest pest infestations.

I spoke with Ginger Nickerson, Forest Pest Education Coordinator for

opportunities to fish in Vermont and so many species available that choosing where and for what is often difficult. Two of my favorite species to pursue are brook trout and walleye. Both are among the best eating fish to be found.

Some of the best walleye fishing on the east side of the state can be found in the Connecticut River. The Northeast Kingdom waters Salem Lake and Island Pond also have walleye populations.

https://www.vtinvasives. org/

https://playcleango.org/ take-action/

https://www.dontmovefirewood.org/how-tohelp/f-a-q/

We all need to be vigilant to protect our forests and the habitats so critical to wildlife.

June Is For Fishing

There are so many

Lake Champlain and its tributaries, the Missisquoi, Lamoille and Winooski rivers and Otter Creek, all on the west side of the state, are all known for excellent walleye fishing. Lake Carmi and Chittenden Reservoir are also good bets. The best places to fish for walleyes in the Connecticut River are from the Ryegate Dam south to the

Massachusetts border.

I have written many times over the years about my favorite type of fishing, brookies in remote ponds and mountain brooks.

Northeast Kingdom ponds are among my favorite places to fish. They include Bald Hill Pond, Long Pond, Newark Pond, Jobs Pond and Center Pond.

Northern Cartographic’s The Atlas of Vermont Trout Ponds has maps and information on the ponds

(Invasives cont. pg 51)

Maple Country Outdoors

by Ben Wilcox, Essex, VT

River Salmonids of the North Country

One of the amazing things about our Northern New England’s river fisheries is that we have a wide variety of wild salmonid species we can target. Wild and native Brook trout and landlocked salmon, (as well as non native wild salmon in some fisheries) and non native wild rainbow and brown trout are abundant depending on the particular river. All characteristics of each species unique habits are generalizations, and I’ll only be focusing on wild stream born fish. Geographic location varies by species as well as the overall abundance. Some rivers are home to all four.

Wild Brook trout can be found in most every geographical region of New England, but Maine is surely tops when it comes to quality and quantity. In Maine, even some large river systems are dominated by the brook trout.

Skating a dry fly in the spring can be super effective and fun. They can often be found in fast skinny riffles.

As we move west and south from northern and central Maine, brook trout become less the dominant fish in a river system, usually replaced by higher concentrations of non native browns and rainbows.

Most rivers in NH and VT see few large brook trout in the main stems of rivers and are relegated to higher mountain streams in the

coolest, cleanest water. They are quite abundant in these environments.

We find a few quality brook trout up to around 17” in mid sized streams during early spring in my area of Vermont. Brook trout, even large trophies, readily eat dry flies, nymphs and streamers. I tend to find them in slower deeper pools and pockets, particularly the extreme tails of pools and pockets. Large trout inhabit lake/ river systems moving between the two depending on time of year and water conditions. They are fall spawners. I have found an orange/yellow streamer works well to elicit a reaction take.

Landlocked salmon will be found in similar geographic regions of New England as brook trout, but Northern NH and VT have quality LL Salmon fisheries as well. Some river systems are dominated by salmon, but many areas they live along side other salmonid species. In river/ lake systems a large portion of fish move from lake to river in the spring and fall, but many adults can be found

in the rivers at any time of year that water temps allow. I have found them in VT in good numbers during high water, only for them to be almost all back in the lake a week later when the water drops. They are also fall spawners. Salmon living in river systems are very inclined to eat dry flies, even adults. I’ve seen adult salmon in VT fresh out of the lake rising to BWOs in the fall. Skating a dry fly in the spring can be super effective and fun. They can often be found in fast skinny riffles. My daughter hooked an 18” salmon last June while walking through ankle deep water with her fly dangling behind her.

Wild Rainbow Trout are also found throughout Northern New England. My area of North Central Vermont is home to the highest concentrations of wild rainbows. Many of our rivers are dominated by beautiful silver bullet rainbows that put up a great fight. You can easily tell the difference between a stocked rainbow and a wild in the same run by the fight. The wild fish also

have very few spots on their sides except for a few bigger males. Mature fish average 13-18” with a rare few going 20-24”. These fish are uniquely adapted to warm water temps and range from high mountain streams to our big, wide and warm rivers. As you move any direction from North Central VT the abundance of rainbows drops and more often brown trout take over unless you go northeast as mentioned above. By the time you get to Maine, Southern NH or VT there aren’t nearly as many rainbows, save for a few isolated concentrations. Wild rainbows will be found throughout a river from fast whitewater to pools, They will eat dries and streamers but nymphs are surely the go to. They spawn in early spring. Brown Trout again, can be found throughout the north. They are found from small streams down to large warm rivers. Giant fish are caught alongside smallmouth bass in the lower ends of big rivers, though 20+” browns are not uncommon from small(River cont. pg 51)

Rainbow Trout from a large river system.

Invasives

(Cont. from pg 49)

and is a great resource. The Vermont Official State Map is available at most rest areas and state offices and will lead you to most of the ponds.

Still Time To Apply For Vermont Moose Hunt

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department will issue 80 either-sex moose

River

(Cont. from pg 50)

er streams. Southern New England and westward are where browns dominate, but throughout Northern NE they are the predominant species in some rivers. Browns tend to inhabit all parts of the river, but unlike rainbows, relate more to structure like downed logs, rocks, overhanging vegetation and bank sides. Generally, if you find structure, you can bet there is a brown there. They tend to be predatory as they grow large, but trophy fish will be found sipping dries and eating small nymphs as well. They also spawn in the fall.

Ben Wilcox is owner of Maple Country Anglers, located in Northwest Vermont. He was a member of the USA Fly Fishing Team from 2020-2024. He is a registered Maine Guide and graduate of the University of Maine. He also owns a large Maple Sugaring Business, Amber Ridge Maple. These occupations allow him to be in the woods or water nearly every day of the year. He can be reached at maplecountryanglers@gmail. com, or on instagram @ benwilcox_maplecountryanglers.

The goal of the department’s 2024 moose harvest recommendation is to improve the health of moose in WMU-E by reducing the number of moose, thereby reducing the abundance and impact of winter ticks.

“Moose are abundant in WMU E with signifi -

hunting permits and 100 antlerless moose hunting permits this year for a hunt limited to Vermont’s Wildlife Management Unit E in the northeastern corner of the state. The sciencebased hunt is expected to result in a harvest of about 94 moose, or about 10 percent of the current moose population in WMU E. Permit applications are available through June 19 on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s website.

cantly higher population density than in any other part of the state,” said Nick Fortin, Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s moose project leader. “Moose are the primary host for winter ticks, and higher moose densities support high numbers of winter ticks which negatively impact moose health and survival.”

Syndicated columnist

Gary W. Moore is a life long resident of Vermont and a former Commissioner of Fish and Game. His latest book, Four Season in Vermont, is available at many bookstores and sporting goods shop or from him directly. He may be reached by e-mail at gwmoore1946@icloud. com or at Box 454, Bradford, VT 05033. copyright 2024 Gary W. Moore

Canis latrans is the scientific name distinguishing this Canid from all other dog-like mammals in the world. In college I was tested on how well I knew the Latin names of animals. Let me tell you, it wasn’t easy, but well worth the effort.

The Canis latrans may appear to have similar symmetry to that of many domestic canids but don’t let that fool you into thinking

On The Prowl

by Justin Merrill, Cherryfield, ME

and awareness capabilities that make it difficult for the smartest mammal on the planet to kill one. This 40 to 50 inch long and 25 to 50 pound lethal canine’s appearance could match one of the many color phases. I’ve shot yellow phased and gray phased, but something about a ghostly white looking furry face with triangle shaped ears staring at me across a reddish brown

All About Coyotes

black v-shape formed between front shoulders) will always be huge in my eyes. This is due to the incredible challenge they bring to the sport of hunting. This North American predator can run extremely fast by reaching speeds over 35 miles-per-hour. A coyote occupies a home range anywhere from 4 – 15 square miles. The coyote will only copulate with one partner for the duration of mating season, which happens to be anytime during late January, on through March. The mating

The coyote surpasses the size of a red fox, Vulpes vulpes but are incredibly smaller than that of the gray wolf, Canis lupus. However, ‘V’ Backs (grayish-black v-shape formed between front shoulders) will always be huge in my eyes. This is due to the incredible challenge they bring to the sport of hunting.

this dog can be your next pet. Watch one chase a deer, take it down, and chomp away with its 40 teeth and it quickly becomes clear why we hunt the ‘hunter’. The 3 or 4 inch ears are quick to hear prey. With super hearing, smelling and seeing powers, it’s surprising that we can successfully hunt them at all. The Canis latrans truly have hunting

blueberry field takes my breath away. The sight of a beautiful Canis latrans walking away without ever being able to shoot the rifle is regarded as a beautiful site.

The coyote surpasses the size of a red fox, Vulpes vulpes but are incredibly smaller than that of the gray wolf, Canis lupus. However, ‘V’ Backs (grayish-

season will last about one week. Male ‘V’ Backs are good dads compared to many other male species of animals. Not always, but sometimes the male helps to watch over and take care of the pups. Food will be brought to the young and once old enough, their dad will occasionally teach them a few hunting tricks.

Pup’s are born in dens

about two months after copulation and weighing only several ounces. On average about five or six short haired pups will occupy a den. Mama can regurgitate food to feed to her young within three weeks of life after weaning. Pups must wait for at least two months before venturing off with ‘Pa to learn how to hunt.

Both the ‘Ma and ‘Pa ‘V’ Backs teach the younglings. Even older siblings from previous litters sometimes help out before pup’s are eight months old. They must be careful not to run into a hungry black bear or gray wolf – about the only threats to the Canis latrans, besides humans. If all works out, they can be expected to live for several years, about 6 – 15 to be exact. If you don’t rush out to fool one with a fake hare in distress call then maybe a couple of the original six will survive 10+ years.

The Canis latrans happens to be more or less omnivorous. Actually, they are opportunistic with their feeding habits. Throughout most of the year other mammals fill up the stomach. These may include but are not limited to shrews, mice, voles, hares, rabbits, muskrats, squirrels, porcupines, deer

and moose. They occasionally eat birds, snakes, frogs, fish, and insects. During autumn months fruits and vegetables are consumed. During winter months a large carcass would be a prized possession to those coyotes that found it first or even killed it. Although rarely killing animals larger than themselves, coyotes can and do sometimes gather together to hunt. It’s more common to see two hunting together – mating pairs – rather than a whole pack like that of the gray wolf. The intelligence they possess makes them great hunters. For example, one might drive a deer or moose towards others that are waiting in ambush position. Here in Maine hundreds of deer are killed each winter by coyotes, which is only one of several reasons to get out there trying your luck at shooting some ‘V’ Back’s.

Justin has his Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Biology from Unity College. He is a member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association (NEOWA) and has authored two books. He is the founder and producer of the outdoor show on YouTube called, “SPIKES and GILLS”.

(Watercolor by V. Paul Reynolds)

Rangeley’s Fly Fishing Festival

A new addition to the many activities available to outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Rangeley Lakes Region of western Maine is the White Nose Pete Fly Fishing Festival.

The Rangeley Region Sports Shop has been a fixture in town for seventy-five years. Located on Main Street, its owners, Brett and Susan Damm, have deep roots in the community. Brett is a registered Maine guide. After joining the Board of Directors of Franklin County’s Chamber of Commerce, Susan fostered the idea of the White Nose Pete Fly Fishing Festival.

Both anglers and nonanglers will enjoy viewing the wares of the many vendors that include not only fly-fishing gear, but artwork, books, and items for the household. Scheduled for June 15, 2024, this annual event is free and will include activities for the very young, as well as fly-casting classes and fly-tying demonstrations for beginners. Throughout the afternoon those knowledgeable about the region will provide one-hour programs on all aspects of fly fishing.

In the past, the festival has featured many of

New England’s fly-fishing notables. Last year, folks had the opportunity to meet with Bob Leeman. Master Maine Guide, outdoor writer, naturalist, book author, and co-host with V. Paul Reynolds of MAINE OUTDOORS. Bob’s newest book, Fly Fishing Maine Rivers, Brooks, and Streams, is a best seller. Upon first coming to the North Country, I purchased the book he co-authored

Over the last two years, Leslie Hilyard, co-author of a number of books with his late father, gave instruction on the history of the region while displaying antique fishing miscellany. At another table, Eric Frohmberg fascinated a group of children with his live exhibit of mayfly nymphs. Later in the afternoon, Eric provided a lecture to a packed room similar to the ones

partment. He was awarded a 2017 New Hampshire Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant and has since become a Master Artist in the Traditional Arts Program. Scott is a member of the Fly Dressers Guild, Catskill Fly Tyers Guild and is an Ambassador for the American American Museum of Fly Fishing. He contributes to a number of

In the past, the festival has featured many of New England’s fly-fishing notables. Last year, folks had the opportunity to meet with Bob Leeman. Master Maine Guide, outdoor writer, naturalist, book author, and co-host with V. Paul Reynolds of MAINE OUTDOORS.

with Dick Stewart, the now classic, Trolling Flies for Trout and Salmon, and ever since have been using his recommended rig for trolling streamers with great success. In addition to Brett Damm, another wellknown registered Maine Guide, Lou Zambello, was also on hand to impart his knowledge of the region’s fishing. Lou is also an author, having written a number of books, including Flyfisher’s Guide to New England, In Pursuit of Trophy Brook Trout, Flyfishing Northern New England Seasons.

he provides on his podcast: Angler’s Entomology. Each year, Rangeley’s angling community has provided a warm and encouraging atmosphere for this family event. While attending last year’s festival, I had the pleasure of meeting one of the North Country’s most celebrated fly tyers, Scott Biron. Scott began tying flies in the nineteen-sixties. He has fished throughout northern New Hampshire, with the Androscoggin River his home water. Scott is presently a fly-tying instructor for New Hampshire’s Fish and Game De-

magazines and periodicals, including the Northwoods Sporting Journal, and many of his fly-tying tutorials can be found on YouTube.

This master fly-tyer has conducted extensive research into many of New Hampshire and Maine fly tyers of years gone by, duplicating their patterns for the benefit of modernday fly fishers, especially streamers for both casting and trolling. These colorful combinations of tinsel and feather are meant to imitate both smelt and baitfish found throughout northern New England.

Knowing my camp is located on Aziscohos Lake, Scott handed me a

by Bob Romano, Rangeley, ME

streamer he’d recently created named the Aziscohos Special. He described how his father had been a cook’s helper for a logging camp located on the lake. One of his father’s jobs was to feed the hungry loggers with fish caught from the lake. With this in mind, the celebrated fly-tyer decided upon a combination of feathers to create the pattern he graciously gave to me.

You can be sure this will be the first streamer I tie to the tippet of my trolling line. Stop by this year’s White Nose Pete Fly Fishing Festival and I’ll let you know how I made out! For more information about this year’s White Nose Pete Festival contact Susan Damm at rangeleyflyshop@gmail.com or call (207) 864-5615.

Bob has maintained a cabin in the Rangeley Lakes Region of western Maine for nearly forty years. During that time, he’s written a number of novels, a book of essays, and a book of short stories set in the region. He can be reached at: magalloway@ mac.com Visit his website at forgottentrout.com for more information about his books.

RIVER FLOWERS - by Robert J. Romano, Jr. "Lyrical, poignant, and sometimes fantastical angling tales from the Maine woods and beyond, written in the great storytelling tradition of Sparse Gray Hackle and Robert Traver..."Stephen Sautner, author of A Cast in the Woods and Fish On. Fish Off.

Cookin’ With New England’s WildCheff

by Denny Corriveau, Kennebunkport, ME

Crappie is as Crappies does. Sounds like it could be a Kenny Chesney song.

Summertime is a great time to grab a light action rod and reel and take your kids fishing.

One of the best things to offer kids is a chance to experience success in the outdoors. They learn a lot from breaking away from the electronic devices and feeling a tug at the end of

ways to enjoy them are fish fry, fish sandwiches, chowder and fish cakes.

Crappie are a structure-oriented fish, so when fishing for them, look for objects like fallen trees, logs and vegetation. They are easily caught by casting light jigs, small spinnerbaits, worms with a bobber, or even my favorite – fly fishing.

To the best of my

The Positive of Being Crappie

the shoreline and around structured areas. Almost instantly we were catching crappie. They were fun to catch and within the hour we had landed plenty of fish for the table.

We proceeded to the shoreline where I set up a working table and a Camp Chef outdoor griddle and broke out my cooking gear to include my WildCheff spices and culinary products.

While I was organiz-

Crappie are a structure-oriented fish, so when fishing for them, look for objects like fallen trees, logs and vegetation. They are easily caught by casting light jigs, small spinnerbaits, worms with a bobber, or even my favorite – fly fishing.

their line ensures we can pass on to the next generation the outdoor lifestyle.

Crappie is a species of fish here in New England that can not only be fun to catch, but they make for great eating!

Although I’ve never had a desire to consume a sunfish growing up, once I discovered, cooked and consumed crappies, it surprised me how delicious they really are. I’d actually consider them the freshwater version of sole/flounder. The characteristics of this fish are a white flaky meat that possesses a sweet flavor. Some of my favorite

knowledge, there is no catch limit on these fish, so you can have quite the fish fry with a bunch of fresh fillets.

I recall my first experience catching them. I was filming a video streaming television show with a bordering State Fish & Game Department. We set out around mid-morning to a small tributary that connected to a large river that runs through the state. The atmosphere resembled a small and narrow pond. Using a electric trolling motor, we drifted slowly across the water, casting small jigs towards

ing myself and getting the griddle heating, my colleague fileted out the crappie.

I prepared a fruit salsa, and then placed some hoagie rolls on the griddle to toast. While they were toasting, I mixed mayo with seasoning and fresh citrus juice to make an aioli.

Now I seasoned up the fish with my WC blackening seasoning and placed them on the griddle, along with some pre-cooked bacon.

You can share these types of outdoor experiences with your kids and show them the value of utilizing our natural resources to not only have fun but bring fishing full circle to

over a fire – heat grilling surface. Once heated, take rolls and open them, brush olive oil and/or butter on the inside portion of the roll and toast them.

Remove toasted rolls

the table. Trust me, they won’t think it’s crappie!

WildCheff’s Crappie Po’boy Ingredients

10-12 crappie filets, skin off

Olive oil

WildCheff Blackening Seasoning

2 Summer tomatoes, sliced 10 slices of precooked bacon

Boston lettuce

6 hoagie/sub rolls

For the Aioli

1/2 C of sour cream 1/4 C of mayo

and lather some horseradish sauce on top side of toasted roll. Place lettuce and tomato on top.

Add small amount of olive oil to your griddle and then place fish and bacon on griddle.

Flip fish and bacon once with spatula and continue to cook until done. Place fish onto bottom of roll. Place bacon on top of it, then fold sandwich closed so that lettuce, tomato and horseradish sauce are on top.

Enjoy with fruit salsa, or your favorite summer side salad.

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Once the fish and bacon were flipped once and cooked, I placed them on a hoagie roll that was lathered with the flavored mayo and added some lettuce and fresh sliced tomato.

My colleague Mark and I took our first bite to end the filming and he was so excited about tasting this Fish Po` Boy, I thought he was going to leap for joy.

2 T of horseradish

Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon Directions

In a small bowl, mix all ingredients for horseradish sauce.

Season fish by lightly coating filets with olive oil followed by desired amount of WC blackening seasoning.

Using a hot outdoor griddle or cast-iron pan

WildCheff - Denny Corriveau is Award-Winning Metis Native Game Chef. He is the Founder of the Free-Range Culinary Institute, the only national wild game cooking school in the country. You can learn more @ www.wildcheff.com or visit him on Instagram @ thewildcheff

Lawns: Why Bother?

How would you like more time to fish this summer? Spend more time camping or canoeing with your family? The answer for wildlife, human sanity,

and sprinkle 80 million tons of pesticides on our lawns with catchy names like Triazicide, Acelepryn, Imazapyr, and our favorite Glyphosate. Many are toxic

and the health of the planet is to minimize (or even stop) mowing your lawn.

Lawns defy logic. The resources needed to maintain a lawn are staggering. We Americans spend an average of 70 hours a summer mowing grass. A study published in Science Daily documented that in one hour of lawn mowing, our gas mower produces as much air pollution as driving a car for 100 miles. An average lawnmower is 94 decibels, slightly less than a motorcycle. After decades of mowing, our hearing is shot, and we can no longer hear the warblers warbling. A sure sign of spring in our subdivision is bright yellow signs gaily announcing CAUTION pesticide application, stay off! No wonder kids don’t play outside any longer. Every year Americans spray

to aquatic organisms and our 200 species of native bees. Princeton University estimates that Americans use 3 billion tons of fertilizer on our lawns annually. According to EPA, 40 to 60 percent of the nitrogen runs off and pollutes the local stream or aquifers. For every ton of nitrogen created to make fertilizer, four or five tons of carbon are added to the atmosphere.

Lawn irrigation uses 8 billion gallons of water daily in America; 30 percent of all water use in the East and up to 60 percent in the West. We fertilize and water so we have to mow even more. Who invented this insanity?

Why are Americans obsessed with maintaining a bright green swath of weed-free lawn? Why have we declared war on dandelions? We can’t eat

anything from our sterile lawns. Neither can wildlife. In recent years, we hardly even play on our yards. Our pilgrim forebearers brought pasture grasses to America as fodder for their livestock (native grasses and forbs weren’t as nutritious as the European varieties.) Kentucky bluegrass is not from Kentucky, but from Europe and northern Asia. Wealthy Americans began to emulate what they saw in Europe – tidy flower gardens and back yard lawns. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were impressed by the deforested, green English landscape and attempted to create this “look” at Monticello and Mount Vernon. If this look was good for our founding fathers, it was good for the American wealthy. Before the Civil War, lawns were a show of wealth and not for the common man. But with rising wealth and more leisure time, lawns proliferated in the suburbs. Today, an immaculate lawn, sprinkler system, exotic trees and flowers, and a grandiose tractor are status symbols; a manifestation of “success.”

According to NASA and their satellites, there are about 40 million acres, 62,500 square miles, of lawn in the United States. That number is so staggering that it doesn’t register with me. It’s about the size of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts combined. Delaware is 10 percent lawn. Rhode Island and Connecticut are 20 percent lawn, and more than 20 percent of the land area of Massachusetts and New Jersey is carpeted in a grassy wasteland.

Doug Tallamy, a professor of entomology and wildlife ecology at the University of Delaware, has a simple answer to solve both the staggering loss of wildlife habitat and the colossal waste of human resources – stop mowing part or all of your yard! In his New York Times best seller Nature’s Best Hope,

by Mark McCollough, Hampden, ME

North Cascades, Denali, Badlands, Sequoia, Grand Canyon, and Great Smoky Mountain National Parks combined

Not all native plants are created equal in their capacity to support wildlife. The absolute best are the oaks (and once-upona-time the American chestnut). They not only fill the

Why are Americans obsessed with maintaining a bright green swath of weed-free lawn? Why have we declared war on dandelions? We can’t eat anything from our sterile lawns. Neither can wildlife. In recent years, we hardly even play on our yards.

Tallamy urges homeowners to take environmental action into their own hands, one yard at a time. He says everyone can contribute to America’s “Homegrown National Park” by shrinking our yards and restoring native plants. The concept is simple. Native plants support moths and caterpillars, native bees, and insects of all types. These in turn are food for songbirds and other wildlife. If we all shrunk our yards by half, we would restore 20 million acres of wildlife habitat; an area greater than Yosemite, Everglades, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Canyonlands, Mt. Ranier,

bellies of squirrels, deer and turkeys, but they support more caterpillars and insect species than any other trees. Native willows, cherries, and birch are not far behind. For forbs let the milkweeds, goldenrods and asters proliferate. They provide valuable nectar and pollen for native bees, but also support the larvae of many species of moths and butterflies. For more ideas and inspiration read Doug Tallamy’s book Bringing Nature Home.

Much to the dismay of some of my neighbors with manicured, sterile lawns, our yard is a mess. (Lawns cont. pg 62)

June Question Of The Month

Did Chet Huntley Ever Fish Moosehead?

By Randall Poulton

On May 5 th , 1961, Alan Shepard splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean, after becoming the first American to fly in space, albeit briefly. Shepard made his 15-minute suborbital flight sitting on top of a Mercury Redstone rocket, in a spacecraft he named Freedom 7. When asked what he was think-

new wife Tipton “Tippy” (Stringer) Huntley. Chet got to know Tippy when she was the “weather girl” at the NBC TV station in Washington D.C., the same station where David Brinkley worked.

As readers will see, this story is full of trivia. But, perhaps, no nugget of minutia is better than this one: The Huntley-Brinkley

off Tom. The plan worked well. Once he was alone on Moosehead Lake, a water he had never fished, Tom fired up his Evinrude and headed toward shore. After finding a likely spot, he spent the day casting his Mooselook Wobbler in the rocky shallows and, as he tells it, caught more big brook trout than he could count.

The two young couples immediately hit it off. Tom and Chet loved to fish. Tom, a tightfisted Irishman, who would take a drink on occasion, did not want to hire a guide. Tom rented a boat and mounted his dependable Evinrude on the transom.

ing just before blast-off, Shepard famously said “I was thinking every single piece of this rocket was built by the low bidder”.

About a month later, on June 11th, 1961, Thomas Loan and his brand-new bride Maureen (Henery) Loan, “splashed down” on the west shore of Moosehead Lake. The Loan’s rocket was a 1960 Ford Country Squire, packed to the gills with all manner of fishing gear, including a 15-horse Evinrude outboard motor. The newlyweds from Worcester, Massachusetts landed in at The Birches in Rockwood. One of the rustic log cabins at this iconic sporting camp would be their honeymoon suite. When asked recently what she thought of spending her honeymoon at a sporting camp in the Maine woods, Maureen said it was a beautiful place: She has never seen a log cabin!

It turned out the only other guests at The Birches were Chet Huntley (he of NBC’s Huntley-Brinkley Report) and Huntley’s

Report was on the air for 14 years, yet Chet Huntley and David Brinkley never met in person! But I digress.

The two young couples immediately hit it off. Tom and Chet loved to fish. Tom, a tightfisted Irishman, who would take a drink on occasion, did not want to hire a guide. Tom rented a boat and mounted his dependable Evinrude on the transom. He was ready to go. Chet was more of a purist: He wanted to flyfish from a canoe and could easily afford a guide. Plans were made for the following morning.

The Birches owner (who I believe may have been Bill Faye, the son of the original owner, Oz Faye) insisted that the best fishing was far across the lake in relatively warm water of Spencer Bay. But Spencer Bay was way too far to paddle, even in a light wind and Faye was concerned Tom might get lost on the big lake. Faye arranged for Chet’s guide to tow both anglers into Spencer Bay, and then drop

this: There were huge piles of logs perched on the banks ready to be rolled into the river. Bill and Chet decided to climb to the top of one of the largest piles

not unheard of, and Chet told the following story:

A month ago, America was losing the space race. But Alan Shepard’s flight was going to change that and NBC wanted to put

That night, back at the lodge, over a few beverages, Chet wondered if maybe he should have hired Tom as his guide. I have known Tom for a good while, and he is the kind of guy who can fall, headfirst, into a small stream and get up holding a squirming twelve-inch trout in one hand and an ice cold twelve-once beer in the other. It must be the Luck of the Irish.

The next day dawned sunny and still. Soon it was hot. The usually fashionable Tippy had packed clothes suitable for the cold wild of northern Maine. Fortunately, Mareen had an extra bathing suit. Based on Tom’s recollections, it seems that, just as it is today, Tippy was hired as a weathergirl for at least two big reasons! But, again, I digress.

After lunch, the two couples, guided by Bill Faye, headed down to East outlet to watch the start of the annual log drive on the Kennebec. What happened next, according to Tom, is

and see what they could see. Tom filmed the “mountain” climbers ascent with his new 8MM movie camera. (Apparently, this is the same camera he had previously been used to document just how well Maureen’s bathing suit fit Tippy). Tom figured between the girls in their bikinis, and the famous Chet Huntley scaling a huge log mountain in the Maine woods, he had some great home movies. It was about then Tom realized he had forgotten to remove the lens cap. There would be no movies.

That night, back at the Lodge, Chet had his turn to make sport of his friend Tom. Finally, Chet admitted that, even in the news business, forgetting to remove the lens cap was

a photographer on the USS Lake Champlain, the aircraft carried assigned to recover the heroic astronaut and his Freedom 7 space capsule. So did CBS and ABC. The Navy said no, refusing to allow civilians on board the carrier on the grounds of national security: Remember, this event took place during the height of the Cold War.

But, our newly elected president, John F. Kennedy, saw the immense PR/propaganda value in having a civilian documenting the recovery of America’s first astronaut. A compromise was struck: The Navy agreed to take one civilian photographer along but only one. The three networks would have to decide who got the cherry assignment. They drew straws and NBC (Huntley’s network) won. The man NBC chose to send was none other than veteran photographer Tom Preistley, the same man who, 15 years earlier, had documented the Japanese (Question cont. pg 57)

Newsman Chet Huntley

Shot

(Cont. from pg 42)

make quicker decisions. The first thing that happens is you hear or see a deer take off running. If you only hear a deer go, you have to try to see it. You may only see glimpses of a white tail or a brown body when it jumps between trees. I am always focused on seeing the head to make sure it’s a buck while my gun is coming up and swinging the direction the deer is going. Once I identify that it’s a buck I want to shoot, it’s just a matter of finding an opening to shoot. Now more often than not, the chance to shoot never occurs, but if the cards line up, I’ll get my chance. As I swing with the buck, I’m looking for openings between trees. To be clear, you will never see all the trees when this is happening. I am only looking for the biggest trees. Between those trees there will probably be saplings and limbs that you may not see. When the buck hits the opening, I snap the trigger, and rack in another round as I continue to swing, all the while looking for the next opening. When my gun goes off, my mind

takes a photo of where the bead was on the buck. That is always where I find a bullet hole in the buck, unless I hit some brush along the way. I always aim dead center on the shoulder whether the buck is running or standing. That point will give you the most room for error in case you hit a twig. it is also the best place to kill a deer quickly. I know meat hunters like to aim behind the shoulder, but a little deflection can paunch a deer and you may never recover it. You hit a deer or any game in the shoulder and they are not going far.

Rabbit hunting was my practice for shooting running deer. If you’re not a rabbit hunter or want to get started practicing now, rolling tires in a pit is a great way to do it. Screw a piece of plywood into the middle of a tire and blow up some ballons to six or eight inches and staple the end onto the plywood. Four usually fit pretty good. Have a buddy roll the tire down a hill and as it picks up speed it may start to bounce, giving it a little deer like action. Of course, be aware of your backdrop and practice safety. When balloons start popping, you’ll know that you’re getting the hang of it.

Good luck on the trail!

Hal is a Master Maine Guide and Author and lives in Moose River Maine with his wife Deb. He can be contacted at: hal@bigwoodsbucks.com

Attention

(Cont. from pg 47 )

pearance of clouds of mayflies millions swarming around the river, with the expired ones piled up along the sidewalks like snow. Then, within a day or so, they were gone, concluding another epic life cycle that we just don’t see very much of.

The outdoors is a nonstop and rewarding teacher, if we’re willing to look, listen, and explore. Then, with that knowledge, we just might lip-hook a very stubborn trophy brook trout or bass. The journey to catch that fish comes with the introduction to some pretty amazing companions.

Matt Dunlap is a sportsman from Old Town and is a periodic co-host on Maine Outdoors, heard statewide every Sunday night at 7:00 pm on WVOM 103.9 FM, WVQM 101.3 FM, and WRKD 95.1 FM in Rockland.

Question

(Cont. from pg 56)

surrender aboard the battleship Missouri, the surrender that ended WW II. The Mercury mission was successful. American had finally put a man in space! Right on cue, Shepard’s capsule Freedom 7 floated back to Earth under a beautiful parachute in full view of the everyone on USS Lake Champlain. Preistley filmed the whole thing. His movie would lead that night’s HuntleyBrinkley Report. A navy helicopter flew him and his soon to be famous film to New York. The first order of business was to get the film developed. But, in the dark room, the technicians were momentarily baffled by what they saw – which was nothing. The film was blank. Yup, Preistley forgot to remove the lens cap!

Epilogue: Alan Shepard went on the fly as commander of Apollo 14 and is one of only twelve humans to walk on the Moon. He still holds the record for the longest lunar tee shot. (Shepard smuggled a golf club aboard Apollo 14!). Shepard died in 1998.

FORD EDGE ST AWD

Chet Huntley retired from television in 1970 and moved to Montana where he built the Big Sky ski resort. Huntley died of lung cancer in 1974. In 1980, Tippy Huntley remarried, this time to the famous actor Robert Conrad. She is considered a pioneer in the television industry. Tippy died in 2010.

Tom and Mareen Loan are alive and well and will soon celebrate their 63rd wedding anniversary. Maureen raised four children and still found time to baby-sit Bob Cousy’s kids. Tom Loan, lucky as ever, is now 95 years young. He still fishes and plays golf. Tom and Maureen spend summers at the camp they built on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and winters in Sarasota, Florida. The Birches Resort is still open and doing great. In 1969, John Willard bought the camps form Oz Faye. Today, his son, also John Willard, runs the Resort. In early June 2024, this writer will spend a few nights at The Birches, hoping to hook into just one of the huge brook trout Tom Loan bragged about 63 years ago.

Cracker Barrel by Homer Spit

It’s somewhat satisfying to look back at your life and realize that you have pretty much outlived your bucket list. Whether you are an outdoors person, or

hunting or fishing adventures, some within reach and some pure fantasy. Blessed have I been with some wonderful hunts in Colorado and Quebec, not

The Bucket List

fishing trips. The potential for outdoor adventures is almost limitless, whether its camping out on the Gaspe or ice climbing on a glacier in Banff.

To each his own.

Some of us are more Walter Mitty prone than others. A late middle-aged man I

A late friend, who had a penchant for taking chances, always insisted that “if it ain’t scary, it ain’t no fun!” And wouldn’t you know it, he died from old age.

not, you probably have a list of things you’d like to do before Father Time pulls down the curtain.

Much of my bucket list over the years has been monopolized by an array of

to mention dream-cometrue fishing experiences in Labrador, Alaska and the American West.

The outdoor experience, I acknowledge, is not limited to just hunting and

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26 Summer Street Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426 proutyab@psouth.net

Ph: 207-564-8353

1-800-464-8353

Fax: 207-564-3426

How else can you explain some humans’ yearnings when it comes to so-called extreme outdoor adventures?

If, like me, you are a cautious sort, not a thrill seeker, and your bucket list has been completed, you

ward were not necessarily anything daring or dangerous, or even outdoors related, just something each of them had always dreamed of doing, but never had the money or the time.

Here is the good news. Bucket lists, like personal

know is still scouring the website for his next thrill, whether its bungee jumping over the Grand Canyon or buckling in for a zip ride over the Trolltunga Rock in Norway.

You can have it. Heights have never been my cup of tea. Funny thing, though, as a private pilot I never had a problem, but put me on the edge of a switchback on the road to Pike’s Peak or the Knife Edge on Mt. Katahdin and I fight butterflies and sweat like a Banshee in the Mohave.

A late friend, who had a penchant for taking chances, always insisted that “if it ain’t scary, it ain’t no fun!” And wouldn’t you know it, he died from old age. He probably nailed it.

might want to consider a reverse bucket list: things you don’t care if you ever do, even if you live to be 100 years old.

Just for example: Cliff camping, skywalking in the Alps, scaling up California Redwoods, tree camping, snow boarding a Canada glacier, rock climbing in Monument Valley, or extreme kayaking on the frothing Clendenning River in British Columbia. The list is endless.

What about your bucket list? In the motion picture by the same name, the bucket list items of cancer patients Carter and Ed-

ambitions, tend to mellow and marginalize with the passing of time. My bucket list once included an Atlantic salmon fishing trip to the Kamchatka Peninsula and a guided trout fishing trip on the San Juan River in Chile, neither of which came to pass.

If the elder George Bush could sky dive at the age of 85 years of age perhaps it wouldn’t hurt for you and me to find ONE thing from the reverse bucket list and give it a shot. After all, adventures like these do add excitement to life and some say, free what is inside of us all.

Helen Keller, who could neither see nor hear, said that “life should be a daring adventure.”

Homer Spit lives on a Maine lake. He likes to keep a low profile.

Read the journal anywhere with the NEW DIGITAL EDITION ONLY $15 FOR 12 ISSUES! www.sportingjournal.com

Moosehead Canoe & Fest

This July, if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure with buddies or family, come here to Moosehead. For the most part, it is far enough off the beaten path, with so much water and woods to escape into, that it will serve as the very best place to relax and

low-key, affordable way to spend some time getting to know what makes Moosehead tick — and can coincide by coming with your own canoe, hiking, or boat and striking off on your own.

On Wednesday, July 24, the afternoon is spent

recharge. I really cannot think of a better place to be in Maine.

Use Greenville as a jumping off point into the North Woods. Here, you can get all the supplies you need before heading off into any direction west, north, or east. Depending on your desire and skills, you can go very remote or not. There are many ponds, lakes, and rivers that connect this ancient water travel route. Some would be great to bring the kids to; some better for experienced adults. One time to come is the third week of July, during the annual Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail Festival. I say this not just because I’m president of it, but because highly reputable, genuine programs are provided by experts who know this region in ways that others not so familiar with the area can. Now in its 17th year, this is a small,

survival and living in the wild she willingly shares. Again, you can’t get better than this. I just like knowing that these crafts people, more and more rare in our day and age, are still with us, and still passing along their knowledge.

Wednesday night we have Penobscot Guide Ryan Kelly up to talk about

by Suzanne AuClair,

of time to compare notes with these experts.

On Friday, July 26, the week closes with a guided kid’s walk, learning about local trees, flowers, plants, and smells of the woods. The walk is followed by an outdoor read-

his other life-long journals. There are a few seats left for a three-day canoe/ camping trip with Penobscot guides. This is an easy, family-oriented adventure on the Penobscot River offered just before the fest. Like Thoreau, paddlers

On Wednesday, July 24, the afternoon is spent with some of the finest wood and canvas canoe builders around. These master builders of this canoe type are the best in the U.S. and happen to live right here in Piscataquis County.

with some of the finest wood and canvas canoe builders around. These master builders of this canoe type are the best in the U.S. and happen to live right here in Piscataquis County. We are very fortunate to have the likes of Jerry Stelmok and Rollin Thurlow, who together have almost 100 years of experience behind them. Each have their own shops not far from Moosehead and have developed keen practical and artistic expertise in their construction of traditional Maine wood and canvas canoes that work well in these waters. We plan to have a demonstration of birch bark canoe building, too. Alexandra Conover Bennett will also demonstrate her techniques for building wooden canoe paddles. A master of remote living in her own right, she is generous in how much of her knowledge about

“The Great Canoe Loop,” a 1500-mile canoe journey that took four months to do, much of it under grueling conditions. He and two other men did the whole route, and were joined off and on by others on different legs of the trip. The loop began at Indian Island in Old Town and ended there; it included the Moosehead Lake Region and North Woods Wilderness areas. That journey will be featured in a 2025 edition of National Geographic. Our evening program will provide plenty of time for questions and answers.

Thursday, July 25, is reserved for birders. Birding experts Bob Duchesne, Alexandra Bennett, and Kate Weatherby will lead some birding identification walks on easy, close-by trails, followed by a remarkable evening presentation about Maine’s Bird Atlas. This day is great for any sort of birding enthusiast, whether you have years of experience or are a backyard bird feeder. If you are crazy for Maine birds, this is the program for you. Again, there will be plenty

ing of the award-winning “Many Hands, A Penobscot Indian Story.”

That night, the festival ends with the scholarship of University of Maine Professor Darren J. Ranco, who ties the relationship between naturalist writer Henry David Thoreau and his Penobscot Guide Joe Polis to today’s Wabanaki land back movement. I have heard Prof. Ranco speak a number of times. All I can say is he’s engaging and not boring in the least. Except for maybe young kids, his talk would be of interest to anyone who follows traditions of the Maine woods. Or who wants to know what this land movement is all about.

Any of these dates would be a great addition to a trip into the North Woods.

The Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail follows traditional Native canoe routes and portages on the Kennebec, Penobscot, and Allagash river drainages. Thoreau’s three trips, two launched with Penobscot guides here on Moosehead Lake, were made famous in his book, “The Maine Woods,” and

learn under the wing of Penobscot guides about traditional Native ways, with two nights spent on their Sugar Island.

Suzanne AuClair is an avid outdoorswoman. She lives near Rockwood and has been writing about the Moosehead Lake Region for the past 29 years. She produced Maine’s reference anthology, “The Origin, Formation, and History of Maine’s Inland Fisheries Division.”

Jerry Stelmok’s creations.

THE BACK SHELF

From the files of the Northwoods Sporting Journal The best hunting and fishing columns going back 25 years!

By Steve Day

The splake hybrid (S. namaycush x S. fontinalis) has been in production since the early 1870’s. Although they are the only salmonid cross capable of reproducing for an indefinite number of generations, successful reproduction has only occurred and been documented in hatcheries.

Splake have been introduced into a variety of waters in the U.S. and Canada over the past 100 years. Even with this large spatial and temporal distribution, there is no credible documentation of splake reproduction in the wild.

Splake will greatly enhance the diversity of opportunity available to anglers in the State of Maine.

Data collected from study waters comparing spring yearling splake to spring

yearling brook trout are conclusive. Splake have out-performed hatchery brook trout in all study waters where water quality meets the criteria out-

that suggest they can outperform stocked brook trout in many Maine waters. Splake have displayed a higher percentage of survival to age III, greater returns to angler’s at large sizes, and the ability to utilize rough fish

Splake have demonstrated several attributes that suggest they can out-perform stocked brook trout in many Maine waters.

Splake have displayed a higher percentage of survival to age III...

lined in the splake stocking policy and where competition has not severely limited growth. Quality fisheries, in terms of both size and catch rate, may be achieved in many waters where currently there are no active stocking programs or where hatchery fish are providing poor or marginal results

Splake have demonstrated several attributes

Goals and Objectives

2001-2016

Maintain fishing opportunities for splake in

Although not well documented, there are several potential impacts of introducing splake into a water-body. These include but are not limited to predation.

as forage in waters where competition limits brook trout growth.

Representatives from the angling public (including SAM and TU) developed management plans for each species. The Coldwater Working Group developed a plan that essentially maintains the existing program and places some emphasis on creating high-quality fisheries with splake.

This 12 lb Splake is close to a state record. Jake Knox (with fish) of Belgrade boated this beauty in early April while trolling a Rapala at Messalonskee Lake.

approximately 53 waters

26% General Management water

19% Trophy Management waters

Initiate new splake stocking programs only if there is no significant negative impact on Existing wild or stocked fisheries

Splake are highly piscivorous and are known to predate several species of fish and their eggs (Berst et al. 1981, Kerr and Grant 2000).

The splake’s unique ability to feed on rough fish, such as perch and bass, is also well documented.

Using splake for management in this way can also be a valuable tool for fish managers. Managers must use the best possible science when stocking the F1Splake or a Triploid Splake in fragile watersheds to help control or eliminate unwanted species. They must use the best possible science when stocking for sport fisheries. Maine’s DIFW fisheries managers I feel have done their jobs well in our state.

The splake has met its objectives to create fishing opportunity where none existed, while protecting the genetic integrity of Wild and Native Fish. Splake furthermore have been shown to provide a safer alternative which other commonly stocked species cannot, or where Brown Trout and Rainbows cannot be stocked because of Atlantic salmon concerns.

Steve Day is a devoted angler and sport fishing activist. He lives in Madison.

By their very nature backshelf articles, resurrected from our archives, may contain information or facts that have been altered or changed by the passage of time.

(Cont. from pg 19)

Warden Brad Richard, Warden Scott Osgood (ret), Warden Arron Rideout, and Warden Jonathan Parker for their work in finding two missing Topsham woman who many had presumed dead, but their teamwork, dedication and skills led them to the women who were stuck in the snow on an old logging road.

Game Warden Kale O’Leary for his work over the span of two seasons in solving the case of two dead moose, utilizing DNA samples from the teeth. O’Leary was also praised for his work on an illegal guiding case this past fall that resulted in multiple summonses.

In addition to the above awards, Al Cowperthwaite, former executive director of the North Maine Woods was recognized with the Colonel’s Award for his work with landowners and recreational users in ensuring Maine’s longstanding tradition of public access to private land continues; and the Maine Warden Service Association presented awards to Bobbi-Jo Wallace for her work as a wildlife conflict agent and supervising the department’s WCAs; Lincoln Police Officer Ashley Winslow for her help in finding two lost Topsham women this past winter; Alex Michaud and

Amos Abbott of the Maine Marine Patrol for their work in assisting the Maine Warden Service with night hunters; Paris Police Officer Breah Pyburn, Oxford County Sherriff Dennis Lowe and Trooper Nick Watson for their work in the apprehension of a convicted felon with an outstanding warrant who killed a moose illegally; to UMaine Machias professor Gerard Zegers for his work in establishing and utilizing a wildlife DNA identification program; and to citizen Lillian Amborn for getting photos, a license plate, and reporting a man shooting ducks at night within 100 yards of a restaurant.

New Trout Strain in VT

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is again stocking a new strain of rainbow trout and is looking for help from anglers to evaluate its performance.

“Vermont stocks about 115,000 rainbow trout annually into inland rivers and lakes to provide recreational fishing opportunities for the public,” said State Fisheries Biologist Lee Simard. “We are evaluating the new Eagle Lake strain of rainbow trout against our traditionally stocked Erwin-Arlee strain to ensure we are providing the highest quality fishery possible with these stocked trout. The Eagle

Lake strain is currently stocked in many states including Maine and Michigan and could be a great fit for Vermont as well.”

The two strains are the same species, but genetic differences can impact their behavior and performance. Both strains will be stocked side-byside into 12 waterbodies across Vermont and will be compared based on their catchability, survivability and growth to see if the Eagle Lake Strain performs better after stocking.

The two strains look very similar but can be identified by a clipped ventral fin, the paired fins found on the underside of the fish about halfway along its body. A missing left fin indicates the new Eagle Lake strain while a missing right fin indicates the Erwin-Arlee strain.

“To help us evaluate the new Eagle Lake strain, we are asking anglers to re-

port to us the rainbow trout they catch from the waterbodies included in this evaluation,” said Simard.

“Take a picture of the trout that clearly shows the missing fin. Then submit that picture and catch report on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website or by using the Vermont Outdoors app on your smartphone. Over half of our results in 2023 came from reports submitted directly by anglers. These reports are critical and will directly influence our management of stocked rainbow trout in Vermont.”

This is the final year the two strains will be stocked as part of this evaluation. A final decision about which strain will continue to be stocked in Vermont will be made in 2025.

Family Fun Day

Each year the Penobscot County Conservation

Club puts on a Family Fun Day at the PCCA clubhouse. This year’s event is on Saturday, June 22 from 9 am to 2 pm. This is a free event for families to learn about land and wildlife conservation. Kids will learn to tie a fly, use a fly rod, use a bow & arrow, try the air gun range, chat with a Maine Game Warden, and take a ride up the Penobscot river in a canoe. Lunch is provided and donations are welcome! The Penobscot Fly Fishers help with this event by doing fly tying and fly casting at the pond. We are looking for 5 volunteers to help make this happen. 2 in the tying area and 2 at the pond, with one floating as needed.

Boy Killed in ATV Crash

The Maine Warden Service is investigating an ATV crash in Sangerville that took the life of an (News cont. pg 62)

Huge Photo

Lawns

(Cont. from pg 55)

Some have come to talk to us, aghast that alders, oak and chestnut trees, and native plants (weeds to the neighbors) have taken over and grow with wild abandon. Our oaks and wild cherries provide buckets of mast for deer and turkeys – regular visitors to our yard (not theirs). Most of the cleared area around the house is devoted to wildflower meadows and miniature blueberry barrens alive with beetles, butterflies, and moths of all description. The flowers attract hordes of native bees and butterflies. School teachers visit to collect monarch chrysalises for their classrooms. There are small ponds for frogs and water dripping from spigots to attract scores of species of songbirds. We mow just a small area and paths that allow us (and gray and red foxes, coyotes, and fishers) to access a few apple and pear trees.

There are always enough apples left for barrels of cider and pies. We share the bounty of the vegetable garden with the raccoons, deer, and woodchucks. A thicket of red-osier and silky dogwoods entices nesting catbirds, song sparrows, and brown thrashers. In the fall the dogwoods produce a carpet of white berries; a cornucopia for migrating fall warblers. Blue bird boxes and bat boxes are nailed to the telephone poles. On summer evenings we watch wildlife while the whine of mowers carries over the neighborhood. So, my challenge to you is this, consider reclaiming your time and give something back to this old planet. Start small and allow a quarter of your yard to go wild. Stop the fertilizer and pesticides. Plant a few oak trees. Let the goldenrod and milkweeds grow. Provide a source of water for wildlife. Build a brush and compost pile instead of taking yard waste to the

landfill. You will be richly rewarded by wildlife and have a little more time and money to take a kid fishing.

Mark McCollough is a retired wildlife biologist and landscapes for wildlife at his home in Hampden, Maine. He can be contacted at markmccollough25@ gmail.com

News

(Cont. from pg 61)

11-year-old Sangerville boy.

The Maine Warden Service was called to an ATV crash on the East Sangerville Road, where an 11-year-old boy was unresponsive after an ATV crash.

It appears that after helping with some chores at a neighboring friend’s property, the 11-year-old boy had gone for a ATV ride on that friend’s property on an ATV he had used before that was owned by the family friend. When the boy did not return, the

neighbor went to look for the boy, and found him on the trail, unresponsive with the ATV on top of him. The neighbor quickly called 911, and got help to remove the ATV, and those at the scene performed CPR on the boy until a Piscataquis Sherriff Deputy arrived and took over performing CPR. Emergency medical personnel arrived soon after and were unable to revive the boy who passed away at the scene.

The Maine Warden Service, the Piscataquis Sheriff’s Office, the Sangerville Fire Department and the Dover-Foxcroft Fire Department all responded to the scene.

Tuna Tournaments Team Up

Enhancing their efforts to support local communities and a sustainable bluefin tuna fishery, three Maine tuna tournaments have joined forces to create a new series called the Gulf of Maine Grand Slam.

Vessels that register for all 3 tournaments will be eligible for additional prize money, part of which will go to a charity of the winning captain’s choice. The series kicks off July 13 with the Bluefin Benefit Battle in Portland. “The Bluefin Benefit Battle is an inspiring event. Year after year, it continues to bring the community together, to not only support local fisherman but to support each other in the fight against cancer,” says Courtenay Needham, Director of Development of Northern New England. “The dedication of our volunteers and our sponsors' commitment to the American Cancer Society embodies the 'local fish, local fight' motto and we are grateful for their efforts to raise money and awareness to help local Maine families affected by cancer.” The second leg begins July 21 with the Bailey Island Fishing Tournament in Bailey Island. Hosted by

(News cont. pg 63)

To Military Personnel Worldwide!

In these troubled and divisive times for our country, we at the Northwoods Sporting Journal remain proud to be Americans. We still stand for the National Anthem and thank our lucky stars that we live in the land of the free.

And we still salute our military men and women, who have served and continue to serve their country, here at home and in faraway lands. To them we owe our gratitude and appreciation for what they do, and for safeguarding our American way of life, which we value deeply.

News

(Cont. from pg 62)

the Casco Bay Tuna Club, the tournament includes opportunities for adult and youth anglers. “The Casco Bay Tuna Club's Bailey Island Fishing Tournament is thrilled to be a part of the opportunity for fishermen to participate in a Grand Slam,” said tournament president Monique Coombs. “This marks our first year back after a short hiatus, and it's more important than ever for tournaments to collaborate in demonstrating their steadfast commitment to sustainability and the health of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. We can achieve this by working together to encourage fishermen to responsibly handle their catch and promoting strong values rooted in stewardship and conservation.”

The third and final leg is the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza, July 27-August 2 in South Portland. Entering its sixth year, the Bonanza raises funds for Maine community college scholarships and internships and bluefin tuna research at the University of Maine’s Pelagic Fisheries Lab at the

Gulf of Maine Research Institute. It features a Youth Day event, 4 fishing days and a fundraising auction and dinner where over $50,000 in prize money will be awarded. “I think this new initiative is a great way to demonstrate unity among the tournaments and how we’re all working together to benefit our communities,” said Bluefin Bonanza president Bob Humphrey. In order to qualify for the grand prize, vessels must be registered in all 3 tournaments. The captain and crew who accumulate the most points will receive a trophy, a cash prize and the privilege of proclaiming themselves the top tuna team in Maine!

Newry Man Honored As Legendary Maine Guide

Kevin Slater of Newry, who began his guiding career in the early 70’s, was recently honored by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife with the Wiggie Robinson Legendary Guide Award, presented to him by Deputy Commissioner Tim Peabody at the annual Maine Professional Guides Association banquet April 13th in Brewer.

and family. Slater is the 14th guide to be honored with the award, which is named after the late Wiggie Robinson, a longtime Katahdin area guide who was synonymous with the Maine outdoors. Slater is a Master Maine Guide and the coowner and operator of Mahoosuc Guide Service, which offers dog sledding, canoeing, and fishing trips in Maine, New England and Canada, which he operates with Polly Mahoney,

Slater received the honor in front of over 400 people, including friends

another legendary guide award winer. Mahoosuc Guide Service also pro -

vides guide training and courses in whitewater canoeing, paddle making, canoe building, dog sled construction and wilderness first responder and wilderness first aide.

There were numerous nominations and recommendations sent in support of Kevin, including those from agency heads, directors of various environmental organizations, business owners, fellow guides and customers.

Kevin began his guiding career in 1973 at the Boy Scouts of America Matagamon High Adventure, before he moved to Alaska and worked as a guide in Denali National Park working for Alaskan dog sled tours. He came back to Maine where he founded Dirigo Mountain Rescue, and Dirigo Search and Rescue, which served Baxter State Park. During that time, Kevin was involved in a number of technical rescues on Katahdin, including the 1984 avalanche.

(News cont. pg 64)

MDIFW Deputy Commissioner Tim Peabody presenting Maine Legendary Guide Kevin Slater with his award.

(Cont. from pg 63)

He created the Outdoor Leader Program while he was a graduate student in the College of Education at the University of Maine, and was the founding director of the Maine Bound Outdoor Program at the University of Maine in Orono, where he served as director from 1981 to 1983. Locally, he created the Junior Maine Guide Program through Newry Recreation, and taught the Junior Maine Guide Program at the Bryant Pond Conservation School.

It was noted that Kevin is eager to share his skills with others, mentoring over 60 apprentices over the last 30 years, providing them with experience that can never be learned in a classroom. He was one of the founders of the Maine Wilderness Guides Organization, and for ten years, was an examiner on the Maine Guides Oral Boards. Along with the skills he teaches, he also includes local and natural history, including that of native cultures, passing along what he has learned from the inuits and the Wabanaki.

Kevin is the 14th guide to be honored with the award, joining Gil Gilpatrick, Gary Corson, Gardner Defoe, Matthew P. Libby, Don Dudley, Danny Legere, Richard Scribner, Donald E. Helstrom, Jr, Lance Wheaton, Bonnie Holding, Carroll Ware, Polly Mahoney, and Jerry Packard….

of all ages and skill levels. There are 9 river sections and 36 lakes and ponds across the state that are stocked with these twoyear old trout, some of which exceed 18 inches in length. Most rivers are stocked with a mixture of brook, brown, and/or rainbow trout, while ponds receive brook trout and rainbow trout.

Special Regulations

Different regulations apply to trout fishing in all specially designated Trophy Trout waters

•Season: 2nd Saturday in April through October 31 (same as statewide regulations)

•Daily Creel Limit: two trout per angler per day

•Minimum Length Limit: None

Stocking Schedule

Trophy Trout waters are stocked from late April through the end of May. Rivers generally receive two plantings of fish spaced several weeks apart. To see the proposed stocking schedule and locations, visit our Fish Stocking Plan page. As locations are stocked across the state,

Missing NH Hiker

est Service Law Enforcement Officer revealed that the owner of the vehicle, identified as William Neal Donovan, 65, of Cambridge, MA, had been unaccounted for and not seen for approximately 2 weeks. It was discovered that Donovan appears to be an avid hiker, but a search of his vehicle revealed several pieces of hiking gear that would have been beneficial if he was planning a hike in the White Mountains. It is assumed that he went for a hike, but this has not yet been confirmed.

With this information a search was conducted by conservation officers and members of a volunteer UAV (drone) Team who searched in and around the Crawford Path Trailhead and around the drainages and trails including Crawford Path, Edmands Path, Mt. Eisenhower, Mt. Pierce, and the ridgeline connecting them. No evidence of or clues to Donovan’s whereabouts were located. There is still several feet of deep snow in the higher elevations, which hampered search efforts.

license photo of William Donovan

Trophy Trout Fishing Opportunities

in VT

Vermont’s “Trophy Trout” stocking program provides exciting fishing opportunities for anglers

Further investigation revealed that Donovan likely arrived on April 16, 2024, but from there his intention and itinerary remain unknown. Information located by the Cambridge Police Department, who had conducted a welfare check of his residence, located a handwritten note indicating his desire to possibly hike Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Adams.

counted for,for 2 weeks, all immediate search activities have been suspended until further leads indicate where he might have traveled.

The area between the Crawford Path parking lot and the summit of Mt. Adams is huge and vast with several hiking trails and miles of dense forest.

The NH Fish and Game Department is asking the hiking community and anyone who might know William Donovan or have any information regarding his whereabouts to contact State Police Troop F at (603) 846-3333, or email Lieutenant Mark Ober at mark.w.oberjr@wildlife. nh.gov

KTP May Leave State

Last month, after a barrage of procedural games and inaction by Governor Janet Mills, radical progressive politicians passed LD 2238, “An Act to Address Gun Violence in Maine by Requiring a Waiting Period for Certain Firearms Purchases,” into law. This law, which goes into effect 90 days after the Maine Legislature adjourns, greatly restricts Mainers’ Second Amendment rights by placing an arbitrary three-day delay on firearm purchases purchased through a Federally

Firearms Licensee. The passage of this bill has left the state reeling, with concerns over an individual’s ability to obtain a firearm of urgent self-defense needs and the immediate and long-term economic loss to the state.

Last week, Maine’s iconic outdoor outfitter and firearms retailer, Kittery Trading Post, announced that if Maine’s new 72 hour waiting period goes into effect it will force them to relocate their firearms business out of state. Kittery Trading Post, an internationally known Maine landmark that has proudly served sportsmen since 1938, employs hundreds of locals and is an economic catalyst for southern Maine. Now, because of anti-gun politicians were more concerned about Michael Bloomberg’s approval than their own state’s well-being, this familyowned business may be forced to move to neighboring New Hampshire if this extreme gun control law goes into effect.

Luckily for Mainers, supporters are fighting back. Local gun-rights groups, Gun Owners of Maine and the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine have announced they will be launching a lawsuit changing the law.

In April the NH Fish and Game Department was notified of a possible missing person whose vehicle was located parked at the Crawford Path parking lot in Carroll. An investigation conducted by a U.S. For-

At this time there is little information regarding Donovan’s history, capabilities, gear, or intention. Donovan lives alone and did not leave an itinerary. Because he has been unac-

Driver’s

Red Flag Supporters Are Blind to the Facts

Four years ago, Governor Mills, attorneys Derek Langhauser and John Chapman, Senators Keim and Carpenter, and the organization I represent, set aside our political differences, and crafted a law that is designed to help Maine people in what is likely the most dangerous time in their life: a mental health crisis.

Using Maine’s Protective Custody Statute, appropriately named to help a person deemed a danger to themselves or others and protect the public, we found a way to not only save lives, but found common ground on one of the most controversial bills of our time: The so-called “Yellow Flag” law. Maine’s law is not a “Red Flag” law, like LD 2286 currently before the Judiciary Committee of Maine’s Legislature. It is far superior! Our current Yellow Flag law, to quote Derek Langhauser, “uses the highest levels of due process when considering taking someone’s liberty, i.e. clear and convincing evidence.” Unlike traditional “Red Flag” which uses the one of the lowest standards of due process in existence, “the preponderance of evidence”. This respect for the Constitution, individual rights, and

adherence to court precedence was a refreshing and empowering moment.

Supporters of Red Flag law (LD 2286) claim family members should be able to petition the court to take someone’s guns. First, in this country, we have rights of due process, and there is a presumption of innocence. In addition, under Maine’s current law, anyone can initiate a complaint to begin the Yellow Flag process, but the Red Flag law limits use to family. Maine’s existing Yellow Flag law is

due process and often without their knowledge. Leaving them alone with no treatment, potentially enraged, and an ongoing threat to themselves, their family, and the public. By contrast, Maine’s current Yellow Flag law utilizes trained police officers and the courts to connect a disturbed individual with professional medical providers who will evaluate their mental state to ensure proper treatment, legal representation, and the highest level of due process.

Our Yellow Flag law

When Maine’s Yellow Flag law was being drafted, groups like Mom’s Demand Action ridiculed it. The Maine Gun Safety Coalition supported it publicly, while undermining it privately. Since it became law, the same groups took every opportunity, without merit, to criticize it. After the Lewiston shooting, these same groups exploited the tragedy to claim the law was weak, cumbersome, and ineffective. They

Supporters of Red Flag law (LD 2286) claim family members should be able to petition the court to take someone’s guns. First, in this country, we have rights of due process, and there is a presumption of innocence.

a government intervention that is designed to protect an individual in a mental health crisis, and that protection is based on their potential to commit dangerous actions, not the opinion of a family member whose motives may be nefarious. Maine’s current law is compassionate and preventative by connecting an individual to life saving services, while temporarily separating them from dangerous weapons - all dangerous weapons – not just firearms.

Red Flag simply takes a person’s guns without

was designed by some of the finest legal minds in Maine. The Red Flag law currently before the Maine Legislature (LD 2286) was designed by a gun control activist from New York who ten years ago said he would use his billions to take down the National Rifle Association (NRA). The same billionaire who, when serving as governor of New York, targeted minorities with “stop and frisk”, a controversial and racially charged policy that got him run out of the 2020 Democrat Presidential Primary.

also falsely claimed there was no probable cause to place Lewiston mass shooter, Robert Card, into protective custody to be Yellow Flagged. The investigation by the Governor’s Independent Commission has since destroyed those claims.

To further undermine these partisan talking points, look to our south. According to CBS News, Massachusetts has had a Red Flag law for five years. The Massachusetts law has been invoked fifty-six times in five years, yet petitions have only been approved

by David Trahan, “Executive Director”

by the court thirty-seven times. Has anyone asked why? Maine’s current Yellow Flag law has already been used 230 times in half the time, in a state with one-fourth the population of Massachusetts.

Maine’s Yellow Flag law has already saved countless lives, reduced police shootings, and prevented suicides. Are gun control activists blind or do they just refuse to accept they were wrong?

If I said to you, you could participate in crafting a law that during its use would save scores of innocent lives, and you could prevent deaths by suicide, and shootings by police, I suspect you would do it. Maine’s Yellow Flag law needs no improvement or replacement. It merely needs to be invoked every time police become aware of a person in mental health crisis. Our Yellow Flag statute is a product of courage, a commitment to saving life, and preservation of personal liberty.

In the days and months after the Lewiston shooting, we have learned that had Maine’s Yellow Flag law been used, it may (Facts cont. pg 68)

Over the past few years, and especially recently, Artificial Intelligence has been making its way into business, research, and technology. Artificial Intelligence, or AI for short, is defined by IBM.com as “...technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human intelligence and problem-solving capabilities.”

“The Trail Rider”

by Dan Wilson, Bowdoinham, ME

artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot that uses natural language processing to create humanlike conversational dialogue,” to “write me a paragraph about ATVing,” just to see what would be shared. The results came back within seconds and are as follows:

Innovations in ATVing

While I’ve seen many suspense movies about AI and its evolution gone sinister, I’ve also seen it help in many ways, from a chatbot on a website answering a quick question to combing through large sets of data to find trends in an expedient manner.

“ATVing, short for All-Terrain Vehicle-ing, is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that immerses riders in the heart of rugged landscapes. Whether cruising through dense forests, conquering rocky terrains, or splashing through muddy trails, ATVing offers a thrilling escape into nature’s untamed realms. The powerful engines and ro-

dom and adrenaline rush. From adrenaline junkies seeking adrenaline-fueled excitement to nature enthusiasts craving exploration, ATVing appeals to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just a recreational activity but also a way to connect with nature

From adrenaline junkies seeking adrenaline-fueled excitement to nature enthusiasts craving exploration, ATVing appeals to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just a recreational activity but also a way to connect with nature and indulge in the thrill of off-road exploration.

I asked ChatGPT, an Open AI tool that techtarget.com defines as “an

bust suspensions of ATVs enable riders to navigate diverse terrain with ease, fostering a sense of free-

and indulge in the thrill of off-road exploration.”

This was the first time I asked ChatGPT to write

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anything for me. Overall, I think it did a nice job capturing many of the main parts of 4-wheeling. It didn’t cover too much about the utility part of ATVs, instead focusing on recreation, adrenaline, and exploration. I also felt like it was written with an eye towards advertisement or a vacation brochure, but it does paint a nice picture of being in touch with nature. I found it interesting that it focused a lot on the adrenaline part, which is a part of 4-wheeling, but as described here feels more like a dirt bike, motorcycle, or supercar, though I’ve seen some YouTube videos and reels where people are doing some wild stunts with 4-wheelers. I’d probably refrain from using slang like “junkie” and use a more respectful term like “adrenaline-fueled excitement” enthusiast.

We already have self-driving capabilities or features in cars on the market today, so what about ATVs? There are self-driving ATVs, many of them still in prototype and are not available to the general public or recreation market yet. Honda has an

autonomous self-driving ATV primarily used as a work vehicle. I can picture this being useful, moving supplies from one crew at a job site to another crew not too far away, allowing each team to focus on their work without too much interruption. The visual of these AI driven co-workers makes me think of Luke Skywalker’s Aunt and Uncle purchasing droids to help out with the harvest on Tatooine in the 1977 film “Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope.”

The technology has a ways to go and many collaborations in thought partnership before autonomous self-driving ATVs become market ready and more mainstream. It will be interesting to see if there will be a market for recreational purposes, but until then “these aren’t the droids you are looking for” to quote Obi-Wan Kenobi from “Star Wars,” adding in the word: yet.

Daniel Wilson works in healthcare and enjoys time outside in nature with his family.

By V. Paul Reynolds

Like so many other dimensions of life, the fly-tying community has its disparate schools of thought. Which is better or more effective, a sparselytied artificial fly or a gaudy, heavily dressed creation? Since I no longer hover over the fly-tying vice, my

The School of Sparse

and salmon angler and a consummate tyer in his own right, likes to joke somewhat chauvinistically that “a fly is like an attractive woman, it must have form, style and flash.” Most of Bob’s tying creations measure up to his definition of a “killer fly.”

credentials when it comes to debating the pros and cons of modern fly dressing may be open to question. But I do fly fish. And I do studiously observe during my time on the water. By trial and error, you do learn what flies entice fish and what flies do not.

Increasingly it occurs to me that artificial flies are designed more to please the angler than to seduce the fish! My friend Bob Leeman, a die-hard trout

Although there is some purported data or science that informs us about fish-striking behavior, the answer to the basic question “What makes a fish hit a given fly?” remains mostly shrouded in mystery. My anecdotal observations from years of fly

You

fishing remote trout ponds and moving water have taught me this:

1. When it comes to hand-tied bug imitations, sparser is better. Less is more. If your fish isn’t hitting your small, colorful streamer or work-of-art dry

fly, give it a high and tight haircut before you swap flies. If it’s a streamer, strip it almost clean of hackle and feathers; if it’s a big, bushy dry fly trim down the hackle with fingernail clippers.

2. If the trout are hit-

ting your #14 Hornberg with gusto and in so doing tearing your fly to ribbons, do not switch flies! Often, what looks hopelessly gnarled and disheveled to you nonetheless still looks like a meal to the fish.

Although there is some purported data or science that informs us about fish-striking behavior, the answer to the basic question “What makes a fish hit a given fly?” remains mostly shrouded in mystery.

Jason Klass, a highly respected Colorado fishing guide, has some insights into the debate over sparse versus heavily dressed: Sparse Flies These flies are wispy and impressionistic, leaving the fish to use their imagination and fill in the (Sparse cont. pg 69)

Where do you read your copy of the Sporting Journal? At camp, in the boat, at the ice shack? We’d love to see a photo of you with your copy of the Journal at an unusual place. If we like it, we will publish it in the Journal. If we select your best shot for publication, we’ll send you an exclusive Sporting Journal hat created just for the occasion. Send your Jpeg photo and a short blurb to vpaulr@tds.net.

Please include your contact information, too. www.sportingjournal.com

Facts

(Cont. from pg 65)

have prevented Robert Card from murdering eighteen people and wounding 13 others. The visionary founders of Maine’s Yellow Flag law did their job and did it well. Yet, the legislative Judiciary Committee stands poised to ignore these facts by passing Red Flag legislation (LD 2286) designed by the same outof-state gun control groups who remain blind to their

own policy failures. This column is written in honor of those visionaries who crafted Maine’s Yellow Flag law. People are alive today because of them, and that makes each of them heroes. Repealing our Yellow Flag law to be replaced by Red Flag is dangerous, not substantiated in fact and it will reinforce the fact that our political system is broken.

David Trahan is executive director of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine.

5 Lake Street, P.O. Box 66, Lincoln, ME 207-794-2460 Email: cwa@cwalakestreet.com

This Photo was sent to us by one of our readers Rebecca Peirce. This 5 Pound bass was caught by her son. It was a Derby winning bass!

24 year old, Jillian Flanders sent in this photo of her 8 point, 168 pound buck. This was her 5th Vermont buck.

Sparse

(Cont. from pg 67)

gaps between materials. In my experience, sparse flies work well in the following conditions:

In clear, slow moving water such as meandering meadow streams or spring creeks

Where the fish face a lot of pressure and see a lot

of bulky store-bought flies

When the fish are spooky and highly selective

Shallow water

Heavily-dressed Flies

I’ve found more heavily-dressed flies to be better suited to the following conditions:

On big water as a searching pattern

In stained or muddy water where visibility

is low

When fishing large, deep pools

In high water

When targeting larger fish (though sometimes the opposite is true)

In streams that harbor larger caddis or stoneflies

At Grand Lake Stream in late May, my son witnessed the ‘sparser is better” lesson on a number of frisky salmon that turned

up their snouts at all conventional offerings, until his presentation featured a Joe’s Smelt with nothing left on it but two strands of white bucktail and a twisted silver ribbing. This they liked.

Go figure!

The author is editor of the “Northwoods Sport-

ing Journal.” He is also a Maine guide and host of a weekly radio program — “Maine Outdoors” — heard Sundays at 7 p.m. on “The Voice of Maine News - Talk Network.” He has authored three books; online purchase information is available at www. maineoutdoorpublications. com or www.sportingjournal.com Contact email vpaulr@tds.net

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In these troubled and divisive times for our country, we at the Northwoods Sporting Journal remain proud to be Americans. We still stand for the National Anthem and thank our lucky stars that we live in the land of the free.

And we still salute our military men and women, who have served and continue to serve their country, here at home and in faraway lands. To them we owe our gratitude and appreciation for what they do, and for safeguarding our American way of life, which we value deeply.