Ducks Over Texas #1 Outdoor Magazine in Texas (see page 75 for Christmas Special!)

TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OutdoorsOUTDOORS Publication” Journal

$ December 2016 / 3.99 Goose Spreads Across Texas | Interacting With Whitetails Hot Winter Shell | Successful Structure Fishing “On The Coast” for the Holidays | Stuff For The Stocking texasoutdoorsjournal.com

coastal & lake forecasts | tide & solunar tables FINANCING TEXAS FOR 100 YEARS TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OUTDOORSOutdoors Publication” December 2016 Journal

For Hunters . . . For Anglers . . .

16 Just Shooting Freshwater Saltwater —Kerry O’Day 14 Bassology 10 Hot Winter Shell- This structure Remington Trigger Recall — Is It —Matt Williams provides anglers plenty of winter Real? Two Topwaters You Gotta Try time fish attracting options in upper 18 Ducks Over Texas- Where to find 26 Just Fishing coast bays.—Nate Skinner a variety of ducks and how to hunt —Brian Hughes them. —Robert Sloan Just A Little Winter Fishing Fun 40 Successful Structure Fishing- Understanding the nuts and bolts of various types of structure and cover, and how fish relate to each. —Matt Williams

22 “On the Coast” for the Holidays- Warmer weather, plenty of fishing options and land-based events draw anglers to Texas’ cities by the 36 Interacting With Whitetails- The sea.—Danno Wise unforgettable experiences that put the hunt back into hunting. —Bob Zaiglin NMLS493828 Lake Roundups — Pros Forecasts 52 Central – John Jefferson Texas never stops. Thanks to the financial support of Capital Farm 56 East – Matt Williams Credit, neither do the farmers and ranchers who call her home. For 58 North – Brian Hughes HERE TO HELP nearly a century, we’ve helped rural Texans show the world what hard 62 South - Danno Wise CoastWatch – Danno Wise 30 Lower Forecast work can achieve. But the job is far from over. And as rural Texas grows 64 West – TOJ Staff YOU GROW. 64 High Plains – TOJ Staff 34 Middle Forecast further, we’ll be there. CapitalFarmCredit.com | 877.944.5500 44 Upper Forecast 68 Tackle Tips & Techniques 47 Louisiana Forecast —Danno Wise 48 Goose Spreads Across Texas- Winter’s Variety of Freshwater Fish 66 Tackle Tips & Techniques Different geographic regions offer —Danno Wise hunting opportunities to shoot Vertical Fishing Strategies for geese using a variety of strategies. Winter Speckled Trout —Nate Skinner 54 Just Hunting —Bill L. Olson For Everyone . . . On the Cover . . . What’s In That Pack? 4 Editor’s Insight – Bill L. Olson “Me and Dad” 60 Guns N Stuff 6 TOJ Notebook – TOJ Staff —Harold Gunn For more information on “Me and 67, 69, 71 Guides, Gear & Getaways Stuff for the Stocking Dad” or other fine works of art by Cal- 72 Outdoors Calendar 70 Field Tips & Techniques— vin Carter visit www.calvincarterart. Bill L. Olson & Danno Wise 74 Fishing & Hunting Times com, call (409) 201-6685 or email at Deer Season’s Home Stretch 75 Subscription Information [email protected].

december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 3 Editor’s Insight Bill L. Olson

A CHRISTMAS WISH

As I’ve stated countless times before, this is the last column compiled and written for each issue. After features, columns and forecasts have been compiled and photos “Texas’ Most Comprehensive selected and laid out, I am charged up with the efforts from the rest of our team. When Outdoors Publication” it comes to the outdoors and prospects for the last month of the year, it is going to be Founder/Publisher/Editor awesome and that is true this month. Bill L. Olson Due to the scheduling of deadlines, I am required to write this just a few days prior to knowing the outcome of the general election that will set the course for our country Administrative Assistant Adala Ruhge and potentially our rights. I am hopeful and prayerful for an outcome that will allow “We The People” to rein in a government that is out of control and return us to a direction Contributing Outdoors Editors based on Constitutional freedoms blessed by God. Harold Gunn At the start of a month when we give thanks at its end, many are troubled. It is Brian Hughes Mike Holmes written that worry is a sin — if we can change it, do so — if we cannot, then place it in John Jefferson God’s hands. Kerry O’Day By the time the last month of the year arrives, when a Christian nation gathers to Bill L. Olson, Jr. celebrate the birth of its Savior, I fall back on faith that there is a divine plan — if we Nate Skinner Robert Sloan are lead to a challenge, God will see us through it. I have experienced this and know Mark Sosin it to be true. Matt Williams This challenging year is winding down and we reflect on what was. We also look Danno Wise ahead to what may be in the New Year. Whitetail Deer Editor I sense an extra special need for December 2016 and all that it holds. A time to be Bob Zaiglin with those most important in our lives ranks at the top. To each I wish this to be in a person or at the very least some type of meaningful personal connection. Art/Production Editor Sunni Gonzales Our beloved outdoors has her arms wide open to ease our mind, enrich our soul and sooth what troubles. It is our sanctuary. Opportunities to be embraced begin at dawn, as the sun rises, bringing light where Advertising Sales there was darkness. This colorful spectacle is enough to unfurrow brows, and replaced 713/957-3997, 713/957-3996 (fax) a frown with a smile, rekindling a feeling of hope. Pick the pursuit — hunting or fishing — regardless of the final tally. I wish for each Subscription Information that something will happen that makes your effort worthy to be there at that place Call 1-800-222-4TOJ (4865); In Houston, and time. It might be personal satisfaction of a shot or cast that reminds us why we 713/957-3997 to charge your subscription by find serenity in the wild places that have been created. Maybe it is observing the next phone. Subscription prices: one year $18.95, generation achieve his or her first. That becomes a first enjoyed twice. two years $29.95, three years $39.95. Mail At times this month, a chilled crispness will be felt in the air that is invigorating. inquiries/changes of address to: Like the yearling buck or doe bucking and kicking up their heels over a lush meadow, TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal we feel a similar exuberant zest for life. 1706 West Sam Houston Parkway North During the course of the day, warmth displaces the chill and we are reminded of our Houston, Texas 77043 loving affection for the people, places and experiences we are most passionate about. It TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal (ISSN 1082-5940) is a pub- is the subtle reminder experienced in a natural setting where memories are recalled or lication of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Editorial and advertising offices are located at 1706 West Sam Houston made, and we are reminded of their importance. No matter how creative or advanced Parkway North, Houston TX 77043. Phone (713) 957-3997. electronics or other technology may become, it can’t replace what is real outdoors. Fax (713) 957-3996. E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] So, the wish for each of you is to enjoy as many days of this month as possible, leading TOJ Online: www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com up to and through the Christmas holidays, outdoors. It is a wish echoed by the entire TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal is published monthly. Photo- graphs and manuscripts for publication consideration are Team at Texas Outdoors Journal. welcomed, but the publisher assumes no responsibility Wishing all a very Merry Christmas and the best in 2017. for such material while in transit or in the office of the publication. Until next month: Pursue all of your outdoor activities in a safe and ethical manner. Copyright 2016 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without permission is prohibited. Views expressed by TEXAS OUT- DOORS Journal contributors do not necessarily express the views of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Publication of CAUTION: All technical data in this publication, especially for handloading, reflect the limited experience of individuals using specific advertising in TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal does not con- tools, products, equipment and components under specific conditions and circumstances not necessarily reported in the article and over which Texas Outdoors Journal has no control. The data have not otherwise been tested or verified by Texas Outdoors Journal. Texas stitute endorsement of products or services advertised. Outdoors Journal, its agents, officers and employees accept no responsibility for the results obtained by persons using such data and Volume 25, Number 12 disclaim all liability for any consequential injuries or damages.

4 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 TOJ Notebook

Texas Quail Hunters Ready for the “Boom”

Quail live on the edge. In lean years same token, consecutive years of populations, restoration is possible.” when weather and habitat conditions above average rainfall and lower than Statewide surveys were initiated in conspire against them, the birds hun- average summer temperatures can 1978 to monitor quail populations. ker down and then when things are produce quail ‘boom’ years.” This index uses randomly selected, right their numbers explode. Experts That’s exactly what has happened 20-mile roadside survey lines to refer to this in simple terms, “boom in the Rolling Plains, South Texas and determine annual quail population or bust.” Trans Pecos regions of Texas where trends by ecological region. This trend This is the year of the boom. both bobwhite and scaled quail (a.k.a. information helps determine relative Hunting season opened statewide blue quail) have made a remarkable quail populations among the regions Please join us in on Oct. 29 and continues through comeback. Much of the latest rebound of Texas. Feb. 26, with prospects in most of can be attributed to good land stew- Comparisons can be made between Texas quail country the brightest in ardship and proper grazing but even the mean (average) number of quail many years. the best conservation efforts cannot observed per route this year and the conservation, “If you took a ride across the core overcome long-term exceptional long term mean (LTM) for quail seen quail hunting regions today, it would drought. within an ecological region. The quail be hard to imagine the terrible con- “It’s important to recognize that survey was not designed to predict rel- education and ditions brought on by the extreme bobwhite quail have all but disap- ative abundance for any area smaller droughts of 2010 – 2013 that hit Texas, peared from other regions of our than the ecological region. Mexico and the Southeastern U.S. so state due to extensive changes in This year’s ‘boom’ is reflected in protecting hard,” said Robert Perez, Texas Parks the quantity and quality of available the survey, which showed record & Wildlife Department’s upland game habitat,” he explained. “TPWD is high bobwhite counts in the Rolling bird program leader. “Consecutive diligently working with conservation Plains region and healthy popula- years of dry summer and winter con- partners and land stewards within tions in South Texas, as well as near hunters’ rights. ditions are especially problematic for key quail focus areas to demonstrate record highs for scaled quail in the short-lived birds like quail because that bobwhites can make a comeback. Trans Pecos. The only region seeing a they rely on each year’s crop of young If we provide the habitat needs at a downward trend this year, the Coastal to replenish the population. By the large enough scale to support viable Prairies, suffered untimely flooding

Cover Art

Popular Texas wildlife and sporting art artist Calvin Carter has capture a holiday hunting scene in a watercolor entitled “Me and Dad.” Countless numbers of children have been introduced to the special time shared during the Christmas and New Year’s Next DSC holidays of hunting with Dad. One of the most intriguing holiday hunts is for ducks along coastal marsh areas. Setting out decoys in the dark, huddling in Convention the blind awaiting sunrise and certainly flights of ducks being drawn close for a shot. Add in the sounds of calling, retrieving January 5-8, 2017 downed birds and the stories after the hunt make for memories that last a lifetime. biggame.org Carter has included in this painting a set of earmuffs to protect the young hunter’s ears. Safety first is the only way to introduce a new hunter. Many times the mentors forsake their own hunting to assure the young shooter handles the firearm safely when the excitement increases. For more information on “Me and Dad” or other fine works of art by Calvin Carter visit www.calvincarterart.com, call (409) “Me and Dad” GREATEST HUNTERS CONVENTION ON THE PLANETTM 201-6685 or email at [email protected].

6 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 conditions that hurt nesting success. looking to establish their own new bear to scare it off.” A regional breakdown of this year’s home ranges and likely dispersed Hunters are encouraged to study quail index survey, including high- from Oklahoma or Arkansas where their game carefully to avoid mistaking lights and prospects, is available online bear numbers have increased in recent a bear for a feral hog or other legal at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/ years. game animal. It is against the law planning/quail_forecast/forecast. This is the first confirmed presence to kill a black bear in Texas, with The daily bag limit for quail is 15, of black bears in East Texas since penalties of up to $10,000, added civil with 45 in possession. Legal shooting September 2011. Breeding black bear restitution fines, jail time and loss of hours for all non-migratory game populations have been absent from all hunting privileges. The black bear birds are 30 minutes before sunrise to this region for almost 100 years, but is listed as threatened by the State of 30 minutes after sunset. bears from Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. Louisiana occasionally wander into To minimize bear encounters Rural Residents, Hunters in East Texas. hunters should keep camps clean Northeast Texas Advised to According to Dave Holdermann, to prevent odors that will attract Be Bear Aware a non-game wildlife biologist with bear and discard gut piles far from Wildlife biologists are advising TPWD in Tyler, bears are normally campsites. hunters, ranchers and rural residents shy and not aggressive to humans. Placing deer corn in piles or in in Northeast Texas of a handful But if a bear regularly visits a ranch or open feeders will attract more bears, of confirmed black bear sightings deer stand, people should try to scare while using an automated feeder hung this summer. At least four sightings it with rocks, a slingshot or air horn. out of reach of bears will decrease have been documented on game “If people encounter a bear at visits. More information about black trail cameras between June and late close range, they should talk calmly bears in Texasis available online August in Bowie, Red River and Smith while backing away slowly. Don’t at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/ counties. make direct eye contact, and don’t resources/bear_safety. Wildlife biologists with the Texas run away,” he advised. “If a bear Anyone observing black bears Parks and Wildlife confirmed the approaches you, stand your ground in East Texas is urged to contact sightings and speculate the bears, and raise your arms, backpack or Holdermann at (903) 566-1626 ext. which appear to be young males, are jacket to appear larger and yell at the 209.

8 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 9 hell is a structure regularly Small fish and crabs are attracted to feed rhythm is often what it takes to coax a targeted by anglers fishing the on these organisms, and in turn larger fish strike from sluggish gamefish. A retrieve STexas’ Upper Coast. From East are attracted to prey upon them.” that incorporates subtle twitches with Matagorda Bay to Sabine Lake many The food chain Sutton described is several pauses mixed in is the ticket. The prime fishing spots contain oyster or clam what makes shell reefs dynamite locations bite will likely feel like a faint thump shell. On just about any given weekend to catch a pile of trout and redfish. The when the lure is allowed to suspend or HOT from April to November, one can bet on gamefish instinctively know to look for sink slowly. several boats drift fishing over shell reefs. food like crabs and mullet around clam Large paddle-tail soft plastics that look Many of these structures are charted as and oyster reefs. like a mullet are a good choice. The five public knowledge and few are well kept Sutton also states that studies show live and six inch Sea Shad by Bass Assassin secrets. oysters and clams create a nutrient rich and the Texas Tackle Factory Killer Flats The popularity of shell reefs spawns environment along the bay floor, which Minnow XL are excellent options. These from the fact that they typically attract gives off heat. baits are buoyant and can produce a fluid, generous quantities of speckled trout and “Oysters and clams feed on slow sinking action when paired with a WINTER redfish. But what happens around these phytoplankton, pulling them down to the light jig head. A switch from heavier jig structures during the winter months? bay bottom,” he informs. “This process heads to a 1/8 or 1/16 ounce jig head is The normal hoards of boats diminish as is similar to a compost system in which necessary. The lighter jig head combined hunting seasons and cooler temperatures organisms are decomposed along the bay with the buoyancy of a large soft plastic keep crowds of anglers off the water. floor, enhancing nutrient production. creates a killer action that the fish can’t Decreasing water resist. temperatures stack up Hard plastic plugs a variety of fish around imitate mullet well, plus SHELL oyster and clam shell to their ability to suspend feed. The lack of fishing during a “twitch, twitch, pressure combined with pause,” retrieve is This structure provides anglers plenty of wintertime winter patterns set up tantalizing on predatory fish-attracting options in upper coast bays. some phenomenal fish. It’s hard to beat the opportunities over reefs. tried and true success of Story and photography by Nate Skinner Soft mud bottoms MirrOlure’s 52MR line are the staple amongst up of plugs. My all- bay fishermen during time favorite MirrOlure the winter. The theory during the winter is the is that the muckiest, 52MR in the number nastiest stuff around is 28 color pattern, which going to hold the most is red, gold, and yellow. fish because mud retains The Rip-n-Slash 90 heat. manufactured by Unfair Some consider the Lures is a hard bait that best winter approach to is giving old school be wadefishing a boggy suspending plugs a run East Matagorda Bay is one of the top estuaries for drifting oyster shell when water mud flat. This strategy temperature starts to cool, and Unfair Lures’ Rip-n-Slash is the perfect winter hard bait for their money. The can turn into a grueling to get hooked up. suspending action of walk, producing foot this slow sinking fake cramps and frustration; although, it often The product of this decomposition and when paused during a retrieve makes it a affords some monster trout during cold nutrient production cycle is heat, which perfect winter offering. The lure produces snaps. attracts plenty of fish when the water is the exact sonic signature of a wounded Drifting reefs provides a much more cool.” baitfish traveling through the water comfortable and alternative approach. Bait presentations must be adjusted column, and the strikes from trout and Like mud, shell also holds heat. According while drifting shell in the wintertime. By reds are proof of this. Even when water to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department the middle of December, most shrimp will temperatures are frigid, the Rip-n-Slash Coastal Fisheries Biologist and Galveston have exited upper coast bays to spend the will produce bone crushing hits. Bay Ecosystem Leader, Glen Sutton, the winter in the Gulf. This leaves speckled One of the best bays for drift fishing biological traits and processes of shell are trout and redfish to feed on fin fish like shell during the winter is East Matagorda what make it an exceptional fish attracting mullet. The most successful artificial lures Bay. The entire western portion of this structure. mimmic these baitfish. estuary is littered with oyster shell reefs. “Shell reefs form an entire ecosystem As water temperatures chill fish Long drifts over this shell will produce of their own,” explains Sutton. “They become more lethargic. Anglers need boxes of quality fish. provide a home for tiny invertebrates and to slow down their retrieve to generate Veteran Matagorda fishing guide, phytoplankton, as well as other mollusks. more hits. Working a bait using an erratic Captain Tommy Countz says anglers

december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 11 Kendal Kersh of Pure of marshes and bayous in Salt Adventures and Shell Attracts Other Species Too Jack’s Pocket. caught a mess of reds Besides specks and reds, shell reefs “There are many and trout in a hurry. attract a variety of other species like black uncharted clam shell reefs The Galveston drum, sheepshead, and sand trout. When near the bayou’s on the Bay Complex is conditions and tides don’t result in a strong north end of Trinity,” he chock full of shell bite from gamefish on artificial presenta- explains. “Some good options for anglers tions, these fish can still provide anglers areas are around Triangle to choose from. In with a tug on the end of their lines and Pass, Long Island Bayou, West Galveston Bay some tasty fillets. They will readily eat a and Jack’s Pass.” some of the best drift freshly peeled dead shrimp off the bottom On Sabine Lake, fishing during the and a simple Carolina rig will do the trick. Captain Randy Foreman winter takes place Sheepshead love the barnacles found says that oyster shell near Confederate along the South Levee growing on the pilings of piers. A neat way Reef. Galveston is a good place to find to attract them is to scrape some barnacles guide, Captain Ryan trout during December. into the water with a shovel. Don’t be sur- Battistoni, indicates Foreman states trout will prised when a few of the striped fish come the best approach also be concentrated on up to the surface to feed. in this area is to the north end of the lake drift stretches of off over shell near Stewt’s colored water holding the shoreline from April Fool’s Point to and Sydnes Islands, as schools of mullet. Eagle Point are a fish producing factory. well as along the Barrel Heavy reds like this beauty caught by Nick LeJeune will be feeding around clam and oyster shell reefs this winter. “I like to start Schools of trout will also be stacked Channel. When searching out fishing in four up around the piers and pilings from for redfish, Foreman looks no further over clam shell,” he elaborates. “The best in comfort. It’s time to layer up, pick a MirrOlure’s number 28 52MR is a long time producer when drifting to six feet of water Eagle Point to Sylvan Beach. According than the clam beds along the Louisiana approach is to slow roll a soft plastic along pleasant day between cold fronts, and shell in cold winter water. over heavy shell on to Sutton, oysters love the smooth hard shoreline. the bottom.” drift over shell. Confederate,” he surface that the wooden structures along “From Green’s Bayou to Johnson Winter patterns are beginning to set in Anglers just might find that it’s one drifting the west end of East Matagorda confessed. “Concentrations of mullet these shorelines provide. This is why so Bayou, and up near Coffee Ground Cove, as the year comes to a close. Cold weather of the best times of year to target this should focus on streaks of off colored will be found in areas where the water is a many reefs are thriving in the area. there will be schools of redfish working doesn’t mean quality fish can’t be caught structure. water near the Raymond Reefs area, out in little dirtier than the rest, and that’s where Clam shell reefs attract the largest front of Boiler Bayou and near Cleveland the most fish will be.” concentrations of trout and reds in the Reef. In Upper Galveston Bay, the piers northern most reaches of Trinity Bay . “Streaks of dirty water surrounded and pilings that extend from waterfront Long time Trinity Bay guide, Captain Tim by clear, green water are caused by properties are surrounded by ample Young, says that the best areas to find fish schools of mullet stirring up mud on amounts of oyster shell. The piers along over these clam beds are near the mouths the bottom,” Countz stated. “Anglers should try to drift right down the middle of these streaks rather than fishing the edges of them. Catching fish in this situation is almost a no brainer because there’s usually plenty stacked up and feeding in the off colored water.” The satellite lakes and marshes off the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) between Sargent and the San Bernard River have deep channels lined with shell at their entrances. Trout and reds school up along the edges of this shell during falling tides in the winter. The channel leading into Cowtrap Lake and the cuts that connect the ICW to the Cedar Lakes are exceptional areas. I’ve fished the edges of these cuts Piers and pilings of waterfront properties in Galveston Bay are surrounded by oyster reefs that like to make a and channels with Captain home on these hard, wooden structures.

12 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 13 BASSOLOGY | Matt Williams water. Subsequent testing showed it to be just as deadly on burly largemouths, if not Two Topwaters You Gotta Try more. The bait eventually found its way to the states and onto the production line at BLO, which introduced it at the 2016 ICAST show in July. The lipless crankbait giant is expecting I like to catch bass any way I can, but on Sam Rayburn when he caught a bass I’m not talking about a popper with a big things from their new topwater, and given the choice I’d rather catch one solid that he estimated to weigh upwards of pretty paint job or cool nose design or a rightfully so. It’s a waking, walking, tail- fish on a topwater bait than I had a dozen 13 pounds. The fish ate a black-on-black buzzbait with an edible skirt. I’m talking wagging, that really disturbs the water and dinks on any other lure. Santone buzz bait. about the full package deal — something is sure to persuade some explosive strikes. There’s something about the eccentric “I’ll never forget it,” Tutt recalled. “I that displaces an action, look and sound At first glance bait looks like a five melody of a surface scratcher at work that was in The Canyons and I came across a that is totally unlike anything the bass have inch paddle tail swim bait with a serious teases the nerves and toys with the mind. small patch of grass maybe 10 feet across. ever seen or heard. weight problem. But the similarities end I’ve been chasing green fish for a lifetime I thought, man, ‘there ought to be a bass At least two lure manufacturers have there. The one-ounce hard body floats and the sights and sounds of a big ol’ in there so I reached for my buzz bait. She pulled it off in recent times. River2Sea did and its unique shape combined with a bass waging war on a topwater bait still crashed it on the first cast and fought like it with the Whopper Plopper and, more downward line tie allows it to do three get me excited. a tank. I had a hard time landing that fish.” recently, the folks at Bill Lewis Outdoors different dances. Not to brag, but two of the largest Lendell Martin, Jr. had a similar did it with their all-new Stutter Step. You * It’s namesake “stutter step” action bass I have ever caught were fooled by experience the following March as he won’t hear me call a bait a must-have very The Whopper Plopper’s wide, flexible tail rotates on a heavy duty harness and churns the water allows the bait to thrash and cut 90 degrees topwater baits. The biggest pounced on a crawled a white buzz bait over a stand of often, but if you like catching heavyweight and roils the surface repeatedly as the lure goes in motion. side-to-side. Using short downward Heddon Zara Spook as it danced across a pepper grass growing near the shoreline bass on surface baits, it might be wise to twitches of the rod tip and not reeling shallow flat at Lake El Salto in Mexico in in Veach Basin. Martin’s fish weighed just get your hands on these two lures before a peculiar name began morphing into with bass junkies early on, but the 90 the angler can keep the bait in one February 1994. It weighed 12 pounds on over 12 pounds. next spring: one of the most prolific hard bait crazes model is gaining ground, especially in spot with very little forward motion. It an uncertified scale. There a passel of other great topwaters Whopper Plopper since the Rat-L-Trap. Alabama’s Chris high pressure or calm water conditions. works extremely well on lethargic fish The smaller fish exploded on a Stanley out there. Some, like the aforementioned Actually, the Whopper Plopper isn’t Lane help blow things wide open when Each size produces a unique sound and when targeting isolated stumps, isolated Ribbit buzz frog as the bait boogied Zara Spook and buzz bait are old reliables all that new. The bait originated several relied heavily on the Whopper Plopper they all cast a mile, allowing you to cover bushes, grass edges, lay downs, submerged through a stand of lily pads at Lake and have rich histories of catching lots of years ago as a muskie lure before finding to finish second behind Kevin VanDam lots of water and hit fishing-looking spots boulders, treetops or anything else where Nacogdoches in May of 2006. One thing big bass. Others are relatively new and still its way into tightly woven bass fishing in the May 2016 Bassmaster Elite Series without getting too close. they are likely to set up camp. I’ll never forget about that hefty female is being put to the test. circles where some suave topwater nuts event on Toledo Bend. Lastly, the bait so simple to fish that a * The “wag the tail” is an enticing her belly was so plump with roe that she I’m always intrigued when I learn that used it to catch big numbers of large bass What is it about the Whopper Plopper beginner can use it catch without much walking retrieve that can be deadly on spewed eggs all over the deck of my bass a lure manufacturer has put a really new and win some healthy tournament pay that makes it so unique? instruction. Just chunk it, wind it and aggressive fish over open water. Giving the boat. That one weighed 10.1. twist on topwater fishing, particularly days in the process, all the while remaining Actually, there are several things. For hold on tight while being mindful that bait a good twitch and stop will actually I know several other anglers who have when the bait turns out to be everything it tight-lipped about it. starters, it’s a large profile lure with a the big trebles are prone to snag on weeds cause it to spin a 180-degree turn to look been lucky enough to get the big bite on is advertised to be rather than a gimmick The secret largely stayed under wraps tantalizing action and dynamic sound. and brush. a follower in the eye. top. In February 2012, Longview bass pro designed to catch way more fishermen until sometime in 2015. That’s when word The body has two sections. The front is Stutter Step * The “wobble-wake” is the easiest of Jim Tutt was practicing for a tournament than fish. leaked out and the funny looking bait with shaped similar to a ‘Spook and the rear Actually this bait isn’t brand new either the three actions to achieve and works is similar to nothing else out there with a — just new around here. It originated in best in calm water. Just chunk it and wide, flexible tail that rotates on a heavy Zimbabwe when a native angler there wind it like a buzzbait. This causes the duty harness and churns the water and began fashioning the lures from wood bait to wake, wobble and roll as it roils roils the surface repeatedly as the lure to catch aggressive tiger fish out of rapid the surface. goes in motion. The are several ways to fish it - stop- and-go or steady using a slow, medium or fast retrieve. The harder you reel it the faster the tail section spins and the more radical the sound becomes. Another cool feature is the bait floats, which means you can stop it in the event that a bass doesn’t connect on the first try, which doesn’t happen very often. Bass don’t just hit this lure. They annihilate it. It’s spooky to think how a territorial peacock bass might react. The bait comes in three sizes ranging from a 3 1/2 inch, 3/8 ounce 90 series to the 7 1/2 inch, 2 3/4 ounce 190. The mid-size 130 (5 inches, 1 3/8 ounce) is The Stutter Step is a waking, walking, tail-wagging, that really disturbs the water and is sure to The front end of the Whopper Plopper looks similar to a ’Spook.’ It is a large profile lure with a tantalizing action and dynamic sound. the one that gained the bait most fame persuade some explosive strikes.

14 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 15 Just Shooting | Kerry O’Day or two screws and you are done. They A good trigger should have enough never take into account how much return pressure to just break on the start Remington Trigger Recall — Is It Real? spring is still working or if the sear has of the pull. I like a clean, creep-free enough touching the trigger so it won’t three-pound trigger pull, anything slip off if the gun is hit hard or dropped. much lighter is fine for target shooting I had a customer bring a trigger job but not for hunting purposes. The most important part of any other gunsmiths, shooters, and hunters brought back to me saying that if you hit There are several good quality firearm is the trigger. If the trigger agree that there is no problem with the the barrel of the rifle enough times with target triggers on the market. Jewell doesn’t work then nothing works. If the Remington trigger. a hammer the vibration would make the makes great triggers for Remington trigger pull is too hard or heavy then First, you have to understand how a trigger go off. Sure enough he was right, and Winchester rifles. Timney also you can’t hit the target as precisely or trigger works. When you pull the trigger if you hit the end of the barrel just right, makes a great standard trigger for just consistently as you should. If the trigger on a rifle, the pull on the trigger releases about 10 times, then the rifle would go about any rifle made from Mauser 98’s pull is too light then the gun could go the sear which drops down and releases off by itself. to Winchester Model 70’s. off when you don’t want it to, or expect the striker which is hooked to the firing I reset the trigger back to the factory Timney has a new trigger called it to. So why are there so many problems pin which moves forward and hits the settings, returned his money and a Calvin Elite. The Calvin Elite is a with triggers? primer of the shell making it go off. It suggested that he find a better gunsmith hunting target trigger for Remington By now, most shooters have heard is simple, and it doesn’t matter if it is a than I was to do his work. You just can’t and a few other rifles. The highest pull about the recall Remington has Remington trigger, a Winchester trigger, please everyone, and with this customer that can be set on this trigger is two This is a trigger on a Ruger rifle — simple and clean this one works. announced for their Model 700 bolt Savage trigger, or almost any other bolt I would never be able to please him. pounds but you can lighten it up to action rifle. Remington is really pushing action rifle, it all works the same. It is There is always going to be someone four ounces if you want a target rifle. replace them for around $75, and set people to get their rifles sent back to very simple and works very well. By who can figure out how to make a The Calvin Elite is the new kid on the them to about three and a half pounds. Remington to get the trigger fixed. This is keeping things simple means they usually mechanical tool fail. There are lots of block and it is a great trigger. A lot of trigger failures are from a lack the largest firearm recall ever. The recall don’t mess up. ways to make a trigger fail and make If you don’t want to ship your of cleaning and lubricating, or on having could affect more than seven million bolt Now here is where the problem comes a gun go off if you try hard enough. I Remington rifle back to Remington to a trigger which was adjusted incorrectly action rifles. Now how did Remington in. Most hunters and shooters never have seen videos of people sticking a have the trigger replaced You can have by a friend or someone who knows just make such a mistake? Or is the recall clean their triggers. You have been taught A $300 custom trigger that needs cleaning. screwdriver into a trigger and making it any good gunsmith install a custom enough to get in trouble. Remember, just a way to put a great American how to clean the barrel of your rifle Notice the dust, rust and other debris at go off without pulling the trigger. You trigger for around $100 to $300, or don’t have brain surgery done by the local firearm company out of business. Well and which solvent works best to clean the trigger and up into the mechanism. If can put a piece of string on your finger many smiths will have some of the butcher, you might not like what you end the trigger is not kept clean so it operates in my opinion, they didn’t and many the copper out of the barrel. There are and attach it to the trigger of an M1 new style Remington triggers and can properly the gun and shooter will have up with. problems. Grand and make it go full auto from the recoil making your finger jump on hundreds of different barrel cleaners on the trigger. the market. Shelves are full of them at There are several neat and legal ways your favorite gun store. I have never seen to make your AR-15 shoot like it is full a trigger cleaner on the shelves of any auto. One company builds a stock that sporting goods store. adds enough recoil to the gun to make How many shooters ever take the the trigger bounce back and forth to stock off their rifle and do a proper job make the AR shoot 30 rounds in about of cleaning the trigger? Not very many. 3 seconds. Now you can’t hit very Let me put this in a more simple way accurately and you can’t afford to shoot to understand. If you never change the it much, not to mention it will burn out brakes on your car or truck, eventually your barrel very quickly, but it is a lot of you will not be able to stop and cause fun to do once or twice just to say you a crash. If you or someone else does a did it. bad job of replacing your brakes on your When you have to make one shot vehicle the same thing can happen and count you usually do. If you have several you won’t be able to stop and potentially shots to try and make count, then you will crash. miss a lot for every hit you make. In the The other big problem which makes War Between the States (Civil War), the triggers go bad is having a trigger job average was one hit for every three shots done by someone not qualified to do fired. By the time we got to Vietnam, the the work. I have seen many triggers hit ratio was down to about one hit for which have no trigger return spring every 2,000 shots fired; different type of tension or triggers with less than a few shooting training over the years of war. thousandths of sear engagement. Both A good trigger job will help make you of these problems are an accident waiting a better shooter. If you are thinking on to happen. how hard you are pulling the trigger on Many gunsmiths or home hobbyist the gun then you are not thinking about think all you have to do is turn a screw where to keep the crosshairs on the target.

16 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 17 ariety is the spice of life, and but a prized bird for waterfowlers, and one Dam B Wildlife Management Area. It’s that is certainly true when that is most often bound for the wall. On located in Jasper and Tyler Counties in the Vduck hunting. the flip side a gadwall is a fairly common fork of the Angelina River, Neches River One of the most interesting ducks on duck for hunters just about anywhere in and the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. This OVER earth is a woody. They are colorful, fast Texas. Ditto that for pintails and teal. WMA covers 12,636 acres of which about DUCKS TEXAS and unfortunately tough to pin down – For redheads you’ll do best along 7,000 acres are a portion of the reservoir. the coast from about Port O’Connor The adjoining land acreage consists of and on down to the Laguna Madre. hardwood bottomland, vegetation and But when it comes to mallards you will river floodplains. definitely have to be in the right place The topography is generally flat with at the right time. These prized birds can many sloughs and ridges. This WMA has most often be found in flooded timber several species of native mature hardwood on lakes, backwater sloughs and rivers. To trees, including; water oak, cypress, sweet consistently take mallards you definitely gum, and red oak. It’s blue chip wood need some pretty good connections, or duck habitat. you are one heck of a good duck hunter. As you might imagine most of this A wood duck is about as crazy a bird as WMA is accessible by boat only. The you will ever hunt. They make a squealing first hunt I made at this WMA was on a sound as they zoom through the timber. backwater slough. You can try to call them, but whether or A couple of us made the run up the not they will respond and wheel around river to B-Tree slough. We set up in a small in the decoys is anybody’s guess. They are area of water and just before shooting totally unpredictable. time was over we had woodies pilling in One of the first wood ducks I ever shot by the dozens. It was something you had was while squirrel hunting in a slough just to see to believe. west of Angleton. Late one afternoon we Typically where you have woodies had a sack of squirrels and on the way you’ll likely have mallards. That’s especially back to the truck encountered a pretty true if you’re hunting in sloughs and good flight of woodies, and we ended up brushy areas of lakes. Put those two ducks with a few for dinner. By the way, a wood together and you’ve got some of the best duck is one of the best eating birds in the waterfowl hunting ever created. world of waterfowl. Some of the most productive hunts When it comes to consistently I’ve ever had were on the flooded flats of shooting wood ducks I don’t know of a lakes after getting several inches of rain. better place than the Angelina-Neches/ Some of the rivers and lakes in East and Central Texas are ideal habitat for mallards and woodies. If you can find flooded timber on a shallow backwater flat you’ll likely have mallards and wood ducks. Three of the best duck hunters I know are Denny Copeland, Kyle Rowe and Robert Mason. They live up around Waco, and typically hunt off the grid on rivers, lakes and creeks. They live to shoot mallards, pintails and wood ducks. And I’m not talking one or two per hunt – they want limits. I got a call from Copeland one day and a photo. They had killed limits of greenheads, pintails and woodies that morning on a Where to find a variety of ducks and how to hunt them. flooded field rimmed by timber, just off a huge reservoir. I got This lab retrieves a greenhead mallard taken on Richland-Chambers Lake is the icing on a waterfowls cake the invite and made a hunt with Story and photography by Robert Sloan — good setup, good shooting and good dog work — PERFECT. Copeland and Rowe the following

18 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 19 day. I’ll go to my grave thinking about one way to have a good hunt. Sometimes their flooded fields just west of Beaumont blinds. That’s because there is no shortage and ended the trip with a hunt on a wide- that hunt. we come up empty. But more often than not far from China and Nome. The nice of people that will poach blinds. By the open corn field. That day a group of us Top We got set up just after daylight. The not we’ll have some pretty good hunts.” thing about hunting in that area is that the way, any duck hunter that will climb into shot almost 100 geese, along with a few FlighT first flight of mallards came in low over the Another memorable mallard hunt same field that produced pintails, would another man’s blind is lower than pond mallards and pintails. It’s definitely worth tree tops. When Rowe and Copeland hit was on a small pond between Winnie and likely bring in specklebelly geese along scum. the run. ‘em with their calls they looped around as the Bolivar Peninsula. I was with Forrest with snows. “I consistently have better hunts if they were on a yo-yo and it was game on. West, who along with his wife and son The absolute best hunts for a variety with makeshift blinds,” says Larson. “It We were leaning tight up against big Jim, owned and operated the old and very of ducks can be had along the coast on allows me to set up where the birds are oak trees when Rowe said, “take ‘em.” popular Los Patos Hunting and Fishing the flats, marsh ponds and backwater on any given morning. I’ll bring along It was a quiet morning with very little Lodge. estuary lakes. I’ve had some excellent enough brush so we can get pretty well Hunting wind. Our shots echoed through the One morning I met Forrest at a back hunts with guide Dwayne Lowrey out of camouflaged and hunt off my custom since 1989 woods as one greenhead after another road gate about three miles from Crystal Port O’Connor. He runs airboat hunts made crates. It’s not as comfortable as Preserve splashed down. During the next three Beach. We ended up on a pond that was that are way off the beaten path. On any sitting in big blind, but it’s a tactic that hours we had mallards, pintails and rimmed by tallow trees and briar bushes given hunt with Lowrey you’re apt to get allows me to put hunters on limits of Pheasant woodies working that little spot. There - a most unlikely place for a mallard hunt. shots at pintails, widgeon, redheads, teal, ducks.” were so many birds we had to take turns With had just enough light to see when scaup and spoonies. Another often overlooked place to Chukar shooting singles to keep from limiting mallards started pouring into the pond. I Jeff Larson is another good guide that tap into some excellent duck hunts is up Quail out too fast. couldn’t believe it. We had easy limits and runs hunts out of Port O’Connor and in the Panhandle in the Lubbock area. Dove How do they stay on birds? heavy straps of “green heads.” Seadrift. He runs airboat hunts and can A few years ago a buddy and I made the “It’s all about scouting,” says Copeland. Pintails are one of, if not the most usually be found on Back Bay ponds. trek up that way and had some of the best Waterfowl “We spend a lot of time on the water popular duck for most coastal hunters. Lewis Hiltpold and I made a couple of hunts ever. looking for ducks on rivers and lakes. They These birds are partial to flooded rice hunts with Larson last season. That’s where you’ll find thousands of move around quite a bit. We’ve been doing fields, coastal flats and flooded fields in One was an afternoon hunt on a shallow playa lakes scattered out among it so long that most of our proven spots the middle of nowhere. I’ve hunted them backwater lake that was covered up with miles upon miles of flat croplands that Photo by Bill L. Olson will load up with quality birds sooner or all over Texas. a combination of redheads, pintails and produce corn, wheat and peanuts. It’s the One of the most interesting ducks on later during the season.” Some of the best pintail hunts in teal. I’m talking about thousands of birds perfect place for attracting and holding earth is a wood duck — colorful, fast and And guess what – they only hunt on the 70’s were on the flats out of Port in one little area. big time numbers of ducks like mallards, unfortunately tough to pin down – but a public water. O’Connor. That’s when we could take 10 The unique thing about Lowrey and pintails and widgeon. prized bird for waterfowlers, and one that is “We spend a lot of time on the road drakes, a.k.a. bull springs. Larson is that they don’t normally hunt in We had great hunts on the playa lakes, most often bound for the wall or pedestal. pulling our duck boats,” says Rowe. “It’s In the 80’s and 90’s I hunted quite a not unusual to travel two to three hours bit with Bobby and Alice Vaughan on READY TO FISH

Day Hunts READY TO HUNT Guided and Unguided Hunts Sporting Clays Excel Bay Pro Excel F4 Shallow Water Tower Shoots Available in Annual Memberships 20’ and 22’ models Full Service Facility Corporate Events

www.topflighthunting.com Columbus TX The author is surrounded by straps filled with mallards, pintails, widgeon and gadwall he and a (979) 732-9196 group of hunters took while hunting flooded timber in Central Texas.

20 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 21 as cooperative, fishermen may find and can be fished in themselves tossing big topwaters for big a variety of methods trout – even if the water is murky. In including being fact, some great big trout days can be free-lined, Carolina had in bad weather. Cold, grey, drizzly rigged or fished days often result in trophy trout for those under popping fishermen patient enough to put up with cork with long the weather while making repeated casts leader depending with topwaters or slow sinking plugs. on current and how Deep water areas will produce high the fish are consistently once the water cools. These holding in the water areas include channels, deep holes, mid- column. bay reefs and other structures such as oil Soft-plastic jigs and gas platforms. While it isn’t common also work well – the to catch trophy fish from these deep water Crème Lil’ Fishy areas, there will be lots of solid keepers being a favorite taken throughout the winter. among many winter During periods of extreme cold, all fish river fishermen. The will run to deeper water (keep in mind, jig head size used TPWD shuts down fishing activity in with soft plastics some designated deep water zones under depends on current certain extreme weather conditions). Live and water depth. shrimp and jigs are usually the best bets Once river From the jetties, beach or piers some big bull redfish can be caught in deep water. fishing gets good, through the early part of winter. “On the Coast” Rivers: Winter is a time when coastal it usually stays that rivers begin to fill with fish. As a rule, way until spring. About the only thing that in the surf during the holiday season. FOR THE HOLIDAYS colder weather makes fishing better in will change this pattern once river fishing Whiting, redfish, black drum and even rivers as they are usually some of the gets good in winter is if there is a lot of speckled trout and pompano (further deepest water available to fish. Some well fresh water runoff. And, keep in mind, a south) can be caught with regularity known rivers for winter trout fishing little runoff doesn’t necessarily shut down during winter. include the Sabine, Trinity, Brazos, river fishing. If there is a small amount of Beachfront fishermen can do well Colorado and Nueces. freshwater runoff, anglers should look for fishing either from the sandy beach or Warmer weather, plenty of fishing options and land-based events Once fish move into rivers, they are fish closer to the bottom as salt water is from the jetties and piers which jut out draw anglers to Texas’ cities by the sea. usually stacked tight in deep holes and denser and will be found below the fresh into the nearshore waters of the Gulf of pockets. This means once fish are found, water. Mexico. During this time of year, most Story and photography by Danno Wise anglers can usually catch plenty from a Surf:The beachfront is often an fish are taken on bottom rigs loaded with short stretch of water. overlooked venue in the winter. However, natural baits such as shrimp, squid, mullet Live shrimp is very productive bait there are still plenty of available species or crab. On calm days, when water gets clearer, fishermen can do okay with small jigs and spoons. ecember is the apex of the radically different from one another, with along the Texas coast can be warm or cold Offshore: Most people holiday season. And, given some offering more than others for non- – or both warm and cold within a span of don’t think of offshore Dthat school is out for a sizeable fishing entertainment options. a few days. However, good fishing can be fishing as an option during portion of December, a number of people When choosing a destination, it really had regardless of temperatures. Anglers the winter. However, there is will be taking a vacation over the next depends on style of vacation you want. just need to adjust target areas and tactics still quite a bit of action to be month. While spending time with friends But, more on that later because, regardless based on the prevailing fishing conditions. had for those willing to run and family is usually the priority during of the amount and type of entertainment Regardless of the weather, there is a out into the Gulf waters in winter vacations, there is also something anglers want when not fishing, they can be surprising number of options for coastal December. The most popular to be said for spending time on the water assured every coastal destination in Texas anglers during the holiday season. offshore option in December during the holidays. offers plenty of angling activity during the Bay fishing: Bay fishing during holiday is state water snapper fishing. In recent years, it has become more holiday season. time can consist of either flats or deep Anglers can legally fish for and more popular to travel to coastal WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE WATER water. Both can be productive depending and keep red snapper caught destinations to celebrate holidays. Even during the middle of winter, on the conditions at the time. When the up to nine nautical miles from South Padre Island, Port Isabel, Port anglers plying the inshore waters along the weather is warm and sunny and the water shore. And, in the winter, the Mansfield, Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Texas coast can expect good fishing more is clear (which often happens during structures found within Texas Rockport, Port O’Connor, Matagorda, often than not. Of course “winter weather” the periods between winter fronts) flats state waters can provide some Galveston, and other Texas coastal towns on the Texas coast varies from year to year fishermen can experience outstanding outstanding snapper fishing. have become popular holiday vacation so it is a somewhat relative term. sightcasting. Clear water and beaches makes a great place to reflect on the year that has passed as well as look forward to In addition to red destinations. Despite the fact they are During the holiday season, weather When the weather is not quite the future. snapper, offshore anglers can

22 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 23 communities during the holiday season. Some of the better known lighted boat parades in Texas take place in Corpus Christi, Port Isabel, Clear Lake, Rockport, and Matagorda. Beyond lighted boat parades, there are land based lighting activities, parades and events. Galveston’s Holiday Lighting Celebration which features a horse- drawn carriage, live entertainment and the lighting of a 35-foot tall Christmas tree. South Padre Island is one of many coastal towns to host a Christmas parade while festivals such as Dickens on the Strand, held each year in Galveston’s historic Strand Shopping District, bring thousands of visitors to the Texas Gulf Coast every December. Birding is popular year around along A soft plastic under a float is a great combination to catch speckled trout on warm winter days. the Texas Coast, but winter offers birders Although most vacationers won’t be Street Market, Landry’s, and The Republic of all sizes, vacationing along the Texas a chance to view rarely seen species while cooking for the holidays, they will still of Texas Grill in Corpus Christi; Gaido’s coast is a great way to spend holidays. It touring the Great Texas Coastal Birding be able to find outstanding eats at some Seafood and Rudy & Paco’s in Galveston; is an awesome way to ring in New Year trail. December is also one of the best of the better restaurants up and down The Boiling Pot in Rockport; Trout Street spending first few hours after calendar After a cold front has passed in murky water anglers can catch some quality trout on topwater times to view endangered whopping the Texas coast. Just about every Texas Bar & Grill in Port Aransas; Pirate’s turns on the water catching fish. But, lures. cranes at Aransas National Wildlife beach town has at least one well-known Landing in Port Isabel; and Blackbeard’s, more than anything, it is a wonderful way offer some attractions and events but not Refuge and Matagorda Island Wildlife encounter grouper, tuna and kingfish, restaurant. Sea Ranch, and Padre Island Brewing to spend quality time with family and near the crowds of the larger cities. Management Area. although the kingfish will be a little further Some of the more popular eateries Company on South Padre Island. friends during one of the happiest times During the holiday season, virtually Beachcombing and seashell collecting offshore than they are during the warm found on the Texas coast include Water With dozens of coastal communities of the year. weather months. One drawback to winter every coastal community has some sort are other popular beach activities. During offshore fishing is fishermen have to pick of parade, festival or event taking place. the winter, storms often wash up a variety days cautiously because fronts can make One type of event that is very popular of shells and sand dollars along Texas Enjoy this costal getaway while conditions dangerous in a hurry. However, along the coast is the lighted boat parade, beaches. letting your investment work when conditions are right, offshore fishing which is held at a number of Texas coastal Holiday time, of course, usually GREAT INVESTMENT/ can be outstanding during conjures up visions of great meals. SECOND HOME for you. the holiday season and a run NORTH PADRE ISLAND offshore provides a nice change CANAL FRONT CONDO 3 bdrm, 2 bath condo w/one car of pace from the typically garage, boat slip and shore power. winter inshore fishing. Built 2004, sold fully furnished or WHAT TO EXPECT ON LAND unfurnished, kitchen fully-equipped, full As good as the fishing can size stacked washer/dryer, rental history. be during the holiday season, Quiet top floor corner location with it is safe to say no one spends VIEW FROM BALCONY great multi-directional views, shaded all of their time with a line from afternoon sun, access via stairs and in the water while enjoying a elevator. holiday vacation. But, what they choose to do while not Near Packery Channel with easy access to upper Laguna Madre and Gulf of Mexico. on the water is a matter of New Schlitterbahn Water Park now open personal preference and should within 250 yards of front door. be a major consideration when deciding where to spend the 2.5 hours from Houston, 2 hours from Austin, holidays along the Texas coast. 1.5 hours from San Antonio. Some Texas coastal destinations Owner/Broker | Show by appointment. are isolated, offering privacy 14427 Compass Street, Unit A13, and a variety of outdoor Corpus Christi, TX 78418 activities. Others are metro See on Zillow.com areas with a number of modern Call for more information: attractions and events to enjoy. Bill L. Olson Yet others are somewhat in A spinning reel and spoon make an effective and versatile combination for sight casting as well as plying the FULLY-EQUIPPED KITCHEN SPACIOUS LIVING/DINING MASTER BEDROOM 713-957-3997 | 713-201-6970 between – small towns that deeper depths of channels or guts along the beachfront.

24 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 25 Just FISHING | Brian Hughes

Note that some of the lakes are known for other species such as bass at Lake Fork, Just A Little Winter Fishing Fun and stripers at Texoma, yet they produce excellent catfishing as well. Striped Bass Striped bass are the fourth most preferred species among licensed Texas Last month I wrote about winter Texas. The crappie group is the third most For those wishing to use artificials, anglers. The history of freshwater striped fishing for bass, specifically big bass. One preferred group overall, ranking behind there are a few choices available. A jig with bass is an interesting one. First introduced of the things mentioned at that time was only bass and catfish.” That makes crappie feathers or bucktail attached, jigs with by nature when Sanntee-Cooper in South the theory that while you may not catch a good place to start. plastic bodies or the horse-head jigs with Carolina was inundated, the saltwater a lot of fish in the cold of winter, the ones Crappie spinners attached are all effective. While native has thrived in freshwater. you did catch were likely to be bigger fish. During the fall, crappie will go shallow many Texas lakes have crappie present, It seems that when Santee-Cooper As I was writing that piece, it occurred to about 15 feet deep early and late in some of the best are, Sam Rayburn, Lake was under construction, saltwater stripers to me a lot of folks are not interested in the day. They spend the midday hours a ‘O the Pines, Ray Roberts, Mineral Wells, migrated up the river to spawn and spending an entire day fishing for just little deeper. Stanford, Navarro Mills, Toledo Bend, became trapped when the lake was closed one bite. But once we reach winter, they gather and Granger lake. The TPWD website to fill. Indeed, most anglers would rather in schools and suspend 20 to 30 feet says, “Lake LBJ’s white crappie population Biologists assumed they would die off, A few popular crappie lures displayed on the author’s dad’s old Kennedy tackle box. A jig with catch several fish, and are not necessarily deep over some type of structure, such is the best of any of the Highland Lakes but they didn’t. In fact, they did quite well. feathers or bucktail attached, jigs with plastic bodies or the horse-head jigs with spinners concerned with size and/or species. That as a hump or creek channel. Brush or chain.” Ed Bonn, a TPWD biologist took notice. attached are all effective. led me to thinking about what I would fish stumps on this structure will enhance the Catfish As this was a time (early 60’s) when Texas stocked into lakes Bardwell and Navarro They can gain as much as five pounds for in the winter months if I just wanted probability that crappie will be present. Just behind bass, catfish is the second was going through a lake building boom, Mills. The rest, as they say, is history. during the winter. You’ll often see scattered to have a little fun. They can be a bit sluggish at times but most preferred group of fish among and TPWD was looking to provide more Being native to saltwater and the groups moving into shallow water on There are several species that are the good news is that they will be hanging licensed Texas anglers, and blues rank fishing opportunities in these new lakes, northeast coast, stripers are very hardy sunny days to feed on shad. Conversely, active during our Texas winters, and will out in large schools. While they can be third behind channel and flathead catfish. Ed decided to bring some of those Santee- fish. They actually enjoy the colder they may concentrate in a somewhat less readily accept your offerings. Striped bass, hard to locate, once found crappie will Chad Ferguson, a North Texas catfish Cooper fish to Texas. water of winter. They will often go on an active condition in the deeper waters for crappie, smallmouth bass, and blue catfish usually feed willingly. They can also be guide says this about winter fishing for In 1967, one million fry were procured aggressive feed as the water cools down a period of time. are all viable targets in December, January found around lighted and baited fishing blues, “December, January, February and from the folks in South Carolina and starting in December. Either way, fishermen need to and February. piers and docks, provided the surrounding March are what I’d consider the best time, According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, water is deep enough. and hottest action, for catching monster “Taken together, crappie (white and black Bait choices for crappie are pretty blues.” combined) is the most popular panfish in simple. Using live bait involves a medium In addition to being good for big fish, sized minnow on a single the winter months afford a lot of options, crappie hook, or multiple like cormorant catfishing, for numbers minnows on a crappie “rig.” of fish. If you are not familiar with the For those not familiar with “cormorant” pattern, let me explain. I the set-up, a crappie rig usually must first warn you that the concept is not consists of a barrel swivel which particularly pleasant, but the technique attaches to your main line. is extremely effective for locating feeding From the swivel a line drops catfish. down to a bell weight at the When the cormorants migrate to Texas bottom. for our mild winters, they spend their time Between the swivel and feeding on fish and sunning themselves weight will be two or more in the trees. “arms” that extend out away Find a cormorant roost and you’ll from the rig and hold the most often find blue catfish. This is hooks. Each hook is baited because when cormorants pass their with a minnow, and when waste, it contains chunks of undigested presented to the crappie offers fish. This then becomes a meal for the more than one choice of bait to catfish gathered below. eat. There are several variations Almost anything on a hook will catch of this on the market, and all these cats. I know anglers that put white of them are effective for those spinnerbait skirts on a hook and toss it choosing to use live bait. When under the trees, while other use prepared winter fishing, more often than formulas. Livingston, Lewisville, Eagle not you’ll be dropping this rig Mountain, Fork, Richland-Chambers, straight down from the pier or Bridgeport, Palestine, Pat Mayse, and Winter crappie can be hard to locate, but once found they boat, so a bobber-stop is not Texoma are all good choices for catfishing will usually feed willingly. necessary. this winter.

26 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 27 concentrate on the humps and points Smallmouth Bass the winter. If water temps dip into the on the main lake, and look for the birds. The smallmouth forties, they will typically move to deeper Seagulls can spot the silver flash of baitfish bass is the best kept water and assume a sort of “holding” deep in the water and will fly circles over secret of Texas bass pattern. the school. With binoculars you can fishing. When you They will rise from winter depths after see the gulls circling and diving. Often hear people talk a period of warm, pleasant weather, and stripers will be chasing baitfish just under about catching bass, may again head toward the shallows. If a the surface of the water when gulls are 99% of the time they cold front blows in, they will retreat lower sighted, and then topwater fishing can mean largemouth in the water column. be productive. Of course there are many bass. In general, they’ll be spread across factors to be considered, including, time No surprise all available cover, such as rockpiles, of the day, direction of the wind, and when you consider weedlines, stumps, and man-made temperature of the water, but during the that largemouths structure. winter months stripers bite from early are more plentiful, In moving waters, focus on slack till late. more available, and water and back eddies. Some of the Some of the best striper lakes are LBJ, easier to catch than better smallmouth lakes include Belton, Whitney, Canyon, Possum Kingdom, the smallmouth bass. Bridgeport, Canyon and Texoma. Baits Buchanan and Texoma. Another But for those in the for smallmouth would be Zara Spooks, interesting fact. Although it is estimated know, smallmouth ¼ ounce spinnerbaits, Texas rigged plastic that the economic impact of striper fishing is excellent in craws, jigs, plastic tube baits, hair jigs, and fishing in the Lake Texoma area alone the Lone Star State. Originally native to saltwater and the northeast coast, stripers are live shad. totals well in excess of $20 million, in Common to the very hardy fish that actually enjoy the colder water of winter. They I have to take a moment and mention will often go on an aggressive feed as water temperatures cool checking the list of top 50 stripers caught waters of the north, the winter time rainbow trout fishing in The author with a nice striped bass caught while winter fishing. starting in December. in Texas, Texoma appears only once. smallies also enjoy Texas. For many years Texas Parks and A 32.75 pound fish caught back in the colder waters of a Texas winter. Our When the water temperature first falls Wildlife Department has stocked rainbow within a few weeks after being stocked. special equipment and are a great way to 1978 is the 44th place entry. A 53 pound winters, after all, are much more like late into the 50’s, smallies are on the move. trout in a number of urban park ponds After March, most of these waters are introduce kids to fishing. Chances are, fish from the Brazos river in 1999 is fall in say, Minnesota, where these fish They’ll work toward the shallows. and lakes. too warm for the trout to survive, so the there will be a stocking location very near Number One. thrive. They begin to feed in preparation for From December through early March, program is suspended until the following your home. TPWD stocks rainbow trout in more than December. There is indeed a bountiful supply of 100 locations across Texas. The hatchery- A full list of stocking locations is catchable fish in Texas during the winter! Texans Are “Talking”about reared trout are 9 to 12 inches long and available at tpwd.state.gov. Type in trout It is up to you to pick your species, create a put-and-take fishery. stockings in the search bar. These fish pick your lake, bundle up, and let’s go Texas Outdoors Journal Most of these trout will be caught are relatively easy to catch, don’t require fishing.

“Hunting AND Fishing “I love the new look of “I read TOJ from cover every month! your covers.” to cover every month.” That’s great!”

“Finally, a magazine “Best saltwater coverage “I like it because it’s that covers Texas like it of any magazine about Texas.” You can make a difference by should be covered.” around.” reporting illegal hunting and fishing activity! Up to $1,000 may be paid for information leading “It’s the best – and most “I’ve cancelled all my “Lake Roundup even to arrest and conviction of poachers useful – gift I’ve ever other magazines except talks about the smaller received.” T O J .” East Texas lakes I fish.” Reward Hotline 800-792-GAME

“Glad TOJ knows how “TOJ just keeps getting “Love the new look.” Support anti-poaching efforts by becoming a to count to 12!!” better, and better.” member of the Operation Game Thief Program (call 512-389-4381 for membership information) or by To subscribe, call 1-800-222-4865 (4TOJ) sending your tax deductible contribution to Operation or go online at www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com Game Thief, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744

28 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 29 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69 & 71

CoastWatch Danno Wise

The Lower and Middle Texas coastal north and fish the side channels or ICW. when the water gets real cold. This can regions rarely experience true winter When the water’s cold, the fish will be in happen in December or it may not happen weather in December. However, beginning those deeper areas. until later in the winter. But, when water this month, the weather conditions can “We have a lot of different weather gets real cold, I look for concrete structure. change rapidly, so inshore anglers need combinations this month. We will usually The sun warms concrete, which warms to be prepared for anything this month. have several warm days in between fronts the water around the concrete. This is As long as the weather remains mild, during December. If it’s windy and the also a good time to look for snook up trout and reds will most likely stay in their water temperature is warmer, I’ll be on the Brownsville Ship Channel. The good fall pattern through the entire month. Gas Well Flats with popping cork or even thing about going up the ship channel However, once a few hard fronts hit, fish on the west side flats. If the water’s warm for snook this time of year is that we’ll will transition to a winter pattern. and we have no wind or low winds, I’ll fish also be catching other stuff up there once the South Bay Channels. it gets cold. Trout, reds, puppy drum, “I know I say it all the time, but I really sheepshead, mangrove snapper - you LOWER COAST prefer the wind to be blowing during the name it. So, even if the snook aren’t biting, winter. Most people don’t even fish on you never go up there without catching windy winter days, but they don’t realize something during the winter.” how good fishing is when wind is blowing. Whether it’s a south wind before a front or a north wind during a front, I really like fishing high wind. But, one thing you have to remember with the high winds is the water is usually Port Isabel fishing guide Capt. Gencho a little dirtier. With dirty water, Buitureira , Jr says December offers a you really need to experiment lot of options and usually the weather with your popping cork until conditions will determine where and how you find out how the fish want it. he fishes. Vary your pops on popping cork. “Wind and water temperature Also, make sure you let it sit long will determine where I fish starting in enough. When the water’s dirty, As the waters drop below the mid-60s Capt. Gencho December,” said Buitureira. “If the water the fish need time to be able to Buitureira Jr. will move to the Brownsville Ship Channel temperature is below the mid-60s, I’ll go find that shrimp. to catch a variety of fish like this snook caught by to the Brownsville Ship Channel or up “Things will start to change Geronimo Garcia of Mission TX

30 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 31 the north winds will so you can work good water is usually found near the JFK blow most of the the plastics slower. Causeway and areas like the Humble water out of the bay. And, on really cold Channel. If you find some good green When that happens, days, the bite may water with mullet, you’ll find fish. One the fish will stack up be subtle, so you thing about December though, you don’t in all the channels really need to be want to leave fish to look for fish. If you and deeper holes. tuned in to feel any find some fish and are catching fish, stay They will come pickup.” where you are. out of these cuts Corpus Christi “When we get warm days and a little following the fronts guide Capt. Allen lighter winds, I’ll fish Baffin. If I’m fishing and feed along the Sifford says he in Baffin, I’ll fish a little more structure, edges of the deeper will be keeping but still in four to six feet of water. water but keeping things simple in “Although we’re mostly looking for close to the deeper December. trout in the deeper water, I’ll also look on

Photo courtesy Capt. Gencho Buitureira Jr. water. Fishing in the “For the most the flats for redfish. One of my favorite ICW and along the part, I’ll be fishing winter redfish spots is Sulfur Road Flats Varying how aggressively and frequently a popping cork is worked edges of the ICW can Photo courtesy Fish-On Guide Service the Upper Laguna for redfish. will result in more hooks ups. Everything slows down in winter. be really good this Even in the winter there are days when quantities of quality fish can throwing Bass “December is also a real good month time of year. be caught. Anglers should take no more than their legal limit, or what Assassins with 1/8 for duck hunting. We do some duck hunts According to Port Mansfield guide “We’ll also catch some really good they can eat and CPR (catch-photo-release) the rest. ounce heads,” said and cast-and-blast trips during December Capt. Steve “JR” Ellis of Get-A-Way trout this time of year. Those bigger fish the winter. Sifford. “This is a month where I throw and do real good on redheads, bluebills, Adventures Lodge, December offers will be on the flats unless it gets really cold. “The other thing to remember in the Assassins pretty much all the time. It is pintails and widgeons. We’ll hunt in either outstanding big trout opportunities in the But, they will be over muddy bottoms and Photo courtesy Fish-On Guide Service winter is you need to slow everything also a month where we’ll be catching good the morning or afternoon and fish the Lower Laguna Madre. The winter weather, won’t be too far from deep water. So, you Bridget Sifford shows off a trophy trout she down. Whether you are using topwaters, numbers of fish and usually have one or other part of the day. he says, also serves to concentrate fish. should concentrate on the muddy bottom caught while fishing with her husband Capt. sinking plugs or plastics, you need to fish two really good fish mixed in each day. “We can have some real good days in “In December, we’ll start seeing a lot flats next to deep water. The flats between Allen Sifford. Sifford says depending upon much slower than you do in the summer “This time of year, you want to find December. We’ll be catching plenty of fish more cold fronts pushing through,” said the spoils and the ICW are a good example weather he has a number of options that and fall. If you are throwing soft-plastics, green water. Ideally, you want to be in and should catch a couple of good ones, Ellis. “When the fronts push through of where you can find big trout during produces some impressive trout in the winter. use the lightest jig head you can throw four to six feet of water over shell. Some too.” SECURE Boat Storage with Private Ramp & Dock

FIRST MONTH FREE ON NEW UNITS! 361-937-2423 **MENTION THIS AD** www.boatstopstorage.com PORT O’ CONNOR: 70 NEW 12.5 x 35 SPACES 2484 Monroe Ave., Port O’ Connor, TX 77979 NOW IN THREE (361) 937-2423 LOCATIONS! ROCKPORT: 70 Secure Spaces 12.5 x 35 with 14 foot doors. 332 N Walker Rd., Rockport, TX 78382 PORT O’ CONNOR (361) 238-7177 ROCKPORT CORPUS CHRISTI, FLOUR BLUFF:194 Secure Spaces 12.5 x 35 with 14 foot doors. 502 Graham Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78418 CORPUS CHRISTI (361) 937-2423

32 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 33 across huge schools depending on the severity of it, some wind can keep MIDDLE COAST of black drum on fish will seem sluggish until about mid- birds moving all the flats adjacent to day. Once the sun starts to heat up the day long. Hopefully the channels, so it is shallows and muddy banks climb in water with some good always a good idea temperature fish become more aggressive shooting having to keep a drum rod and the perfect presentation doesn’t have to sit out in the rigged and ready. to always be in place. I would say one key elements all day Fishermen to finding a post front bite is to not only will not be a factor. leaving out of work areas of baitfish, but to get into the “December Rockport should areas where these fish will be staging as can deal different expect to find most the day heats up. cards each day fish holding over “Another key is working the areas of the month mud and shell much slower than a summertime wade and adjusting Aransas Pass/Port Aransas area anglers during December. and really working every nook and cranny. accordingly can will find plenty of redfish on the flats During warm You may throw at the same sand pocket be the difference Photo courtesy N & M Sportsman’s Adventures during December – at least until the spells, fishermen six to eight more times than you normally between frustration temperatures turn bitterly cold. This are likely to find would. We have all heard the term ‘hitting and success. Decoys are out and it looks like a great day to hunt some redheads could happen as early as the second week both specks and Photo courtesy N & M Sportsman’s Adventures them on the head’ and this is certainly true Remember, on the of December or it may not happen until reds over muddy Plenty of trophy ducks available on Texas middle coast like this pintail on chilly mornings. days you are the only one at the ramp flats. January. flats where they drake. “Fish will spend as little energy as they with a boat-load of decoys it is extra However, as the weather and water As long as the weather is mild, redfish can be taken with can to feed. They act very sluggish and important to be safe out there. The open cool throughout the month, fish will begin fishermen should focus on the flats. topwaters, slow-sinking plugs and soft- concentrate in front of marsh drains, it presenting your lure in such a way that bay on a howling north wind can be a to transition to muddy bottom areas. Fish Once the temperature drops significantly plastics. Regardless of the type of lure is possible for anglers to catch easy limits makes it a much easier target will prove dangerous piece of water, even for the will also concentrate around the deeper anglers should look for reds in channels thrown, a slow retrieve is the key to without moving. to be more effective. You should drag most experienced boatsman.” reefs during December. When the tide and guts adjacent to the shallow flats. consistently drawing strikes during the Seadrift guide Capt. Nathan Beabout the bottom with your plastic rather than Port O’Connor area anglers can expect drops – especially following a front that Trout will be consistent along the winter months. of N&M Sportsman Adventures says making it jump off the bottom. Also, this good fishing as well during December. “pushes” the water out of the bay – look channel edges as well as over the deeper The most consistent action to be found December is a time when outdoorsman is why suspended baits that just hang in Early in December, fishermen may still for redfish to be stacked up in deep holes grass flats. Fishermen working the grass in the bays surrounding Rockport during can enjoy a day on the bay without dealing different parts of the water column are so find some fish over the sand and grass and channels. should focus on the edges and potholes. December will be around the deeper shell with huge crowds. effective this time of year - they are slower Deeper shell pads will also be holding reefs. “With parking lots that once were moving targets and a fish has to use less plenty of fish this month. Soft-plastics Large concentrations of speckled jammed packed turning up vacant day energy to get to. and free-lined shrimp will be the best bets trout and a good number of redfish will in and day out, other than the occasional “Now, when the weather doesn’t for consistent catches of speckled trout be hanging around these mid-bay reefs good weather weekends, December will present much option to fish, our coastal during December. all winter. host some phenomenal days of fishing duck hunting can be red hot. It is true, the Black drum will be found in the Black drum and sheepshead are also and duck hunting,” said Beabout. “Yes, worse the weather the better the hunting. deeper channels, while sheepshead will frequent catches around the reefs during the weather plays a major role in days we Hunting during cold fronts can host a be common catches around the reefs. winter. Live or artificial shrimp or soft- are allowed to fish and many blast/cast wide variety of birds to shoot at. On warm days, it isn’t unusual to run plastic jigs are the best choices when will turn into double hunts. But, during “Of the nine different species that call fishing around the days between fronts that we call golf our marsh home for the winter months, reefs during the weather can be some of the finest days to most can be taken during the front. A winter months. be chasing trout and redfish across our low cloud ceiling and screaming north When the back lakes. winter tides “Fishing pre- and post-fronts is key drop out, look this time of year. In my opinion, fish for redfish to respond to these cold fronts much like be stacked up we do, during the worst of it they look for around the creek a place to lay up with their heads down. mouths and Before and after a front feeding patterns marsh drains, can be similar. particularly on a “Typically pre-front fish can be found falling tide. With feeding sun up to sun down, and little an outgoing affects them. Mother Nature has a funny flow of water, way of sensing when these weather redfish tend to systems are coming, and in response hold in front of acts accordingly to prepare. From Corky Photo courtesy N & M Sportsman’s Adventures. these drainages Fatboys to a mid-day topwater bite a lot Photo courtesy Fish-On Guide Service Dragging soft plastics along the bottom rather than hopping them or awaiting an easy of fish are eager to grab whatever comes Capt. Nathan Beabout shows off a quality fishing suspending baits is a good way to hook up with trout before and meal. across their path. speck available during winter blast-and-cast after a frontal passage. When fish “On the flip side, after a front, outings.

34 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 35 Interacting with Whitetails The unforgettable experiences that put the hunt back into hunting. Story and photography by Bob Zaiglin

ave you ever experienced a luring in some outstanding animals, and large whitetail buck in your while doing so learned much about their Hface drooling from its mouth behavior related to rattling that I would glaring at you like you owed it money? like to share so that more sportsmen can Well, if you haven’t December is the time enjoy their hunting activities even more. to get your chance as those old belligerent One’s basic goal is to create the sounds bucks will let their guard down and fall of two bucks high on testosterone in a prey to what I refer to as interactive knock-down drag-out fight. hunting techniques. The antlers I use are both from the As we enter December, hunters, same side which enables me to clash them particularly in South Texas, enjoy the most together without damaging my hands. I exciting time of the year when it comes to modify them by rounding off the sharp pursuing whitetails. Some hunters will tips of each tine. I also spend hours in elevated 4x6 box blinds smooth the bases in enjoying what their kids refer to as ‘time order to facilitate a firm out’. But for those who relish the thrill of grip without irritating taking advantage of deer behavior, their my hands. Persistence is critical because one time will be spent in the brush with a pair All antlers, real or never knows when that outstanding of antlers and a grunt call attempting to artificial, work, but buck will show up. lure one of those ole wraiths up close for one’s confidence in the a shot. The amazing thing, however, it’s technique and the area not what they shoot but the unforgettable they hunt is paramount recalcitrant bucks. actually become entwined. The point is, I make with my antlers while whacking experiences they enjoy by putting the hunt to success. No one lures Before initiating a rattling sequence, rattling up a deer is not totally dependent away at the older, dead, low-hanging limbs back into hunting. in a buck every rattling I get situated in an area that provides on the sound of calcium on calcium. It’s which to a buck verifies that the real thing There is much that can be said session, so like dry fly concealment with an abundance of brush all the collateral noise that deer make is taking place. Deer also have a difficult of sabotaging an ole buck, as it takes fishing for trout, one or leaves on the ground that can be used crashing through and over the brush that time detecting my presence under the countless hours of knowledge-gathering must remain patient to enhance my orchestrated battle. attracts deer most. curtain-like canopy. time in the deer woods in order to increase and persistent. For example, in East Texas, I prefer In order to entice reticent bucks, I Although I have a certain procedure, the chances of being at the right place Location is areas inundated by wax myrtle or yaupon often carry a lightweight club the size it varies dependent on the conditions. I at the right time. But when it comes to important to success, with ample dry-leaf matter on the ground, of a baseball bat that I employ to tear normally begin by driving the bases of rattling up a brute other than periodically but the presence of all of which is used to enhance the raking up my surroundings, making even more the antlers alternately into the ground being partially concealed while concocting freshly used scrapes sound I make with the antlers. brush-smashing noise, which is extremely imitating the sounds of a buck hazing a a mock buck fight, the hunter is mobile, verifies that a buck or When two dominant bucks clash, attractive to bucks. doe for at least a minute. covering a lot of ground, seldom if ever two inhabits the area, it rapidly turns into a pushing match In the brush country, I prefer a Following a short pause, I will rub the visited by a hunter. coercing the rattler to resulting in a lot of brush popping noise position underneath those umbrella- back of the main beams together, then There is no formula or designated remain and rattle a little extremely attractive to satellite bucks. shaped huisache trees. Under the canopy, reverse the antlers and tinkle the tines procedure in rattling up a buck. At longer, which often This is the same attraction humans have there’s normally a copious amount of lightly. This is repeated for a minute or the right time, anyone can successfully makes the difference to the sound of an auto collision. While dead, woody material along with an slightly less. perform the technique. Over my 41 years when it comes to The buddy system is an effective method of seeing more of those those gladiators get after it, the sound of abundance of dried leaves that I can use Following a second short pause while of pursuing trophy bucks, I have enjoyed drawing in those bucks hesitant to rush in to a mock battle. clashing antlers is seldom heard as they to enhance the raking and pounding noise continually searching the area before

36 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 37 side of the mock battle, pausing just out during peak rut, which occurs around mid range are educated—after all, they of sight, before they work their way to to the end of December in South Texas have survived the gauntlet of five or the downwind side where their olfactory and early November in East Texas. And six deer hunting seasons, but more system takes over. Once downwind, the most effective time of the day to rattle importantly, they are not overly the chance of seeing them diminishes, is early morning. abundant, thus the probability of particularly at ground level. A balanced sex ratio augments locating, alone bringing one in One effective way of getting a look at competition between bucks, providing to the horns is minimized. But I an old hunter-weary buck is to position ideal rattling conditions. However, even have experienced rattling on well- an individual in an elevated stand in deer herds favoring does, a rattler will managed country where big deer approximately 30 to 40 yards downwind experience some success. The important exist, and although they aren’t from where you rattle. By doing this, thing to remember is to locate those pushovers, a man who knows what your partner will be able to see bucks isolated pockets inhabited by does and he is doing can enjoy success. circling to get your scent. This same bucks in equivalent numbers. These are Knowledge of the area one technique, employed with three people, the areas hunters normally stumble upon hunts also increases rattling success. is even more effective as the additional as they search for ideal locations to rattle. By spending time in brush, one can man 30 to 40 yards upwind of the rattler Deceiving big bucks is not easy no become more knowledgeable about may sometimes see more bucks than the matter where you hunt, but it can be done. deer and their habitat. Remember, A tight sex ratio is ideal, but timing is paramount to success, making peak rut the optimal time individual on the downwind side. Every year sportsmen tell me they have no you are pursuing deer on their turf, to deceive those often reclusive bucks by rattling. Another strategy I employ to problem luring in young deer, but the big and they know it well. After all, me for an early arrival, I firmly clash the Bucks frequently come in under 10 complement my rattling is grunting, boys are a different story. they live there day and night. There antlers together, proceeded by grinding minutes, but I remain 15 to 25 minutes particularly when a buck is in view. I agree that two-to-four-year-old is no way we can learn all of their Bucks leave signs as they prepare for the breeding them together, loud at first, reducing the at each rattling site. If I am aware of an Once a buck rushes into the mock fight, bucks scoring in the 130-inch range react patterns or secret escape routes, but season that can be used to facilitate success when volume towards the end of a minute- outstanding buck in the area, I will select it will remain in view longer if grunts are most to rattling, but only because they the more we learn, the more success rattling. and-a-half long sequence. I pause for a position that provides a wide view of intermittently emitted. And holding a are young, naïve, and more importantly, we experience. time. Perseverance, that stick-to-it- up to three minutes by repeating the last my surroundings and remain for several buck that extra second or two can make abundant. Just like fishing a premier bass Rattling up an outstanding deer, like ness character, is paramount to success. sequence which can be performed every hours, rattling on and off every 30 to 40 the difference when it comes to getting lake, you don’t boat a ‘hawg’ on every cast. bugling in a bull elk, is an adrenalin Obviously, luck plays a role. But the more five to ten minutes throughout my stay at minutes. off a shot. Why? Because few of those slugs exist. rush. It doesn’t happen every time you learn about the deer you hunt, the a single location. Bucks often approach from the upwind The optimal time period to rattle is Bucks exhibiting racks in the 150+ one rattles, but it can happen at any luckier you will get.

Made to go wherever your quest takes you . . .

Black & Tan Camo

The most accurate ultra-light rifle without compromise

3 A precision firearm designed for ultra- • Custom Built as Light as 4 /4 lbs. minimum weight, ultra-minimum recoil, • Customer’s Choice of Caliber and ultimate accuracy. • Guaranteed Accuracy

w w w . m g a r m s i n c . c o m | t : 281.821.8282 | i n f o @ m g a r m s i n c . c o m

MG Arms recommends Swarovski Optik for precision long-range optics and is an Authorized Swarovski Dealer.

38MGA-QuestAd-Horz-TOJ.inddTEXAS OUTDOORS Journal1 december5/29/15 1:35 2016 PM december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 39 Successful Understanding the nuts and bolts of various types of structure and cover, and how fish relate to each. Structure Story and photography by Matt Williams Fishing ’ve shared the casting deck with road trip that goes by that I don’t catch Points: This is a section of land with a some outstanding fishermen over myself scanning for potentially good finger-like anatomy. Some points originate Ithe years, but East Texas bass pro fishing spots on bone dry land on both on the bank and extend far into the lake David Wharton was arguably among the sides of highway. while others form beneath the surface, most versatile. Structure might be defined as a well away from the bank. Underwater Wharton died in February 2009 after feature on a lake’s bottom that is different points can be especially good because suffering an apparent heart attack. He from the surrounding area. Time and they aren’t so obvious to the naked eye, was 59. experience has taught me, and an army but you’ll need good electronics with a Well known for his prowess with a of other anglers that it plays a vital role good mapping chip such as Navionics to spinnerbait and flipping jig, Wharton was in any bass fishing plan. locate them. also a master at finding big groups of large The same holds true of cover, which There are main lake points and fish in isolated spots away from the bank includes various forms of aquatic secondary points. Any point located so he could exploit them with a Texas rig, vegetation such as hydrilla, tules, lily inside the mouth of a creek is considered Carolina rig or casting jig. It’s spooky to pads and torpedo grass, as well terrestrial secondary. think how effective he might have been stuff like flooded willows, mesquites Some points are bare, while others with modern electronic technology like and huisache bushes. Blown down trees, may have brush, gravel, bushes, rock, Lowrance StructureScan at his fingertips. bridge pilings, rocks, tire reefs, stumps, stumps or grass. The most productive best I thought about that as Hemphill bass boat docks and man-made brushpiles points will often have some sort of cover pro Tommy Martin of Hemphill took constructed from willow tops, sweet gums, on them. It doesn’t take a lot to hold fish, me structure hopping at Fort Gibson etc…. also could be considered forms of either. Just one or two isolated stumps Lake in Wagoner, OK, last September cover because they offer bass and other can attract big numbers of bass at certain in preparation for the final Costa FLW predators places to hide and ambush prey. times. Places where a creek channel or Series Southwestern division qualifier of Case in point: Bass and cover/structure abrupt drop off meets with a point also 2016. I also thought about some advice go together like cowboys and honky tonks. holds plenty of potential. Wharton had offered up years earlier as Find one and you will often find the other. Floating Tire Breakwaters: Large we plied the waters of Sam Rayburn in The trick is getting somebody to dance. marinas sometimes place rows of big tires hopes of stumbling across one of those Here’s a more in-depth look some of at strategic locations along the outskirts magical sweet spots loaded up with thick the better types structure and cover. to create a barrier to help protect facilities shouldered largemouths he had the knack of finding. “You can learn a lot about structure driving down the road if you’ll just look around,” he said. “You’ll see places where the land forms points, ridges and humps as well as old sloughs, roadbeds, pond dams, drains, flats, creeks and rivers. When you’re looking at the land imagine what it would be like if it were submerged by 10-20 feet of water. Think about how the fish would relate to it.” The conversation took place roughly 20 years ago, but it made an everlasting impression that stuck so well that “structure watching” has since become Torpedo grass, (aka hay grass) forms a canopy on the surface and has distinctive edges — sort of a habit. In fact, there is rarely a although typically not as deep as hydrilla — and it is way tougher.

40 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 41 may grow thick with brush or vegetation. deep as 30 feet in extremely clear water usually don’t remain Bass like to feed and loaf along roadbeds, and provides great habitat for bass and private for very but they also use them as travel corridors forage, alike. It forms a canopy once it long. Brushpiles when making seasonal commutes, sort of reaches the surface by late summer and can be made using like creeks and ditches. fall and then dies back several feet beneath limbs robbed from Roadbeds can be particularly good the surface during winter. assorted trees, where they intersect with an isolated piece Bass anglers can exploit bass around but willows are a of cover or other structure such as a creek hydrilla by casting or pitching to the heavy favorite. Bass channel, blown out bridge or another edges, punching weedless baits through anglers typically like roadbed. Most roadbeds also have bar the canopy or working lures over the top to build brush piles ditches on either side that may provide a of the grass when the window of open so they lay on their subtle depth change. water is wide enough. sides, whereas as Bass pro Keith Combs of Huntington Another form of grass that has taken crappie fishermen is a firm believer in roadbeds. A few years root on several lakes across eastern Texas prefer theirs to back, Combs weighed in a monstrous in recent times is torpedo grass. The stand erect in the limit weighing 41-1 pounds during a bass vegetation is commonly referred to as water column. FLW bass tournament on Lake Falcon. “hay” grass because it looks similar to Docks: Boat Most of the fish were caught in relation an coastal bermuda grown in hay pastures. docks and piers are Some points originate on the bank and extend far into the lake while isolated bush at the intersection of two old Hay grass forms a canopy on the huge deal on many others form beneath the surface, well away from the bank. farm roads that collide on top of a ridge surface and has distinctive edges — lakes because of the Bass anglers can exploit bass around hydrilla by casting or pitching to the edges, punching about 50 yards from the Rio Grande River. although typically not as deep as hydrilla cover they provide. Some docks are shade they provide. Docks with a brush weedless baits through the canopy or working lures over the top of the grass when the window Ridge: A ridge is similar to a hump, — and it is way tougher. I’m talking permanently anchored to bottom using pile or two around the perimeter can be of open water is wide enough. except it is more elongated like a saddle. braid-breaking tough. Heavy-duty braid support pilings. Others float on styrofoam especially promising. Bass will move back and forth along will slice through hydrilla like a knife, but and are secured with heavy duty steel Bass fishing isn’t rocket science, but it from destructive wave action created by deeper depending on the lay of the land. ridges, but the outer edges and tips where it won’t begin to cut through hay grass. cables. does call for some skill and knowledge. If high winds and big boats. These man- Available cover such as hydrilla or the water goes from deep to shallow are Brushpiles: Bass and crappie anglers Stationary docks provide bass with you are new to the game, understanding made breakwaters can be magnets for brush will make a hump even more likely to be the most promising from one routinely place brush piles in lakes at multiple pilings where they can hang out structure and cover and how the fish bass because of the cover and shade they attractive to bass. Humps don’t necessarily day to the next. strategic locations in order to create or they can lounge around in the shade. relate to it will put you 10 steps ahead of provide. have to be big to hold fish, either. In fact, Grass: When Texas bass anglers talk private fishing holes. Problem is, they Floating docks are favored mostly for the someone who doesn’t. The downside to fishing around tires is the best humps are usually those that are grass, they are generally referring to that the list of effective fishing tactics are relatively small in size and can be checked hydrilla. Although it’s been in Texas lakes fairly limited. One is to work moving bait out in fairly short order. since the 1970s, some Texas scientists still along the edges. Another is to penetrate Roadbed: When lakes are built, old refer to hydrilla as an exotic plant because the bowels with a drop bait like a jig or county roads, highways, bridges and other it originated overseas and is not native to Texas rig. byways are often inundated in the process. Texas waters. Creeks: Creeks and rivers feed water Underwater roadbeds typically maintain Hydrilla can be found in lakes all Check back often for the latest outdoor news into a reservoir while providing bass a hard surface that will remain fairly around the state and is most prevalent in from across Texas, the United States, and anglers with a reliable form of structure clean for years, while the area around it East Texas waters. The plant can grow as around the world. to soak their baits around. Bass like to use • Stay informed in between issues channels as highways when traveling from shallow water to deep. • Latest outdoor updates and news They spend a lot of time hanging • Links to all your favorite resources around “ledges,” which typically provides • Information for hunters and anglers easy access to shallower feeding grounds • Tide Tables while providing the security of having • Hunting & Fishing times deep water nearby. Creeks lined with aquatic vegetation or • Read issues online for subscribers stumps can be especially good, particularly • And much, much more! where the channel forms a definitive bend left or right. Inside bends typically form an underwater point that will be Stay OUTDOORS informed! significantly shallower than outside bends wallowed out from years of washing. Humps: Imagine a flat pasture with Follow us on Facebook! a bump or rise in the middle where the Texas Outdoors Journal elevation changes 8-10 feet. If the top of Updates, News, Giveaways and More, the hump were submerged in five feet delivered straight to your newsfeed! of water, that means the water around Man-made breakwaters like this floating tire breakwater can be magnets for bass because of the it would be about 15 feet deep, possibly cover and shade they provide.

42 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 43 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69 & 71

“No matter the option that you pick, bird activity during December. I would “I normally throw slow-sinking plugs you can have some great trips on the expect to have birds working throughout like Corkies and various MirrOlures CoastWatch Danno Wise water.” Trinity - from Cedar Point all the way to during December. In Sargent Capt. Trey Prye of Capt. the back end of the bay. And, there should “We don’t generally have a real Trey’s Trophy Charters says December is be some pretty good fish under the birds, consistent topwater bite that time of all about trophy trout. not just pencils. year, but we do pretty well on Corkies, December generally brings change “In December, I’ll be strictly wading “But, again, our normal routine Catch 2000s, and 51 Series MirrOlures. along the Upper Texas and Louisiana with clients in search of trophy trout,” said during December is wadefishing. I’ll What you want to do is look for the most coasts. While the month often starts off Prye. “We will be throwing Unfair Lures, usually be wadefishing East Bay, playing mullet you can find, then wade that area feeling more fall-like, at the end of the year Nortons, and Corkys. the winds and fishing the shorelines. If we throwing those slow-sinking plugs. the temperatures have usually dropped “I will fish structure and areas with have a hard south wind, we’ll be on the “There could also be some decent significantly. As a result, fishing patterns concentrated bait during the cooler south shoreline fishing the best water we redfish action in December. Again, will be changing over the next few weeks. months. Warm mud flats and deep guts can find. If we have a north wind, we’ll be because the pattern seems to be running This doesn’t mean fishing will decline. on the North and South shoreline of East on the north shoreline. late, I wouldn’t be surprised to see In fact, once winter weather sets in, fishing Matagorda Bay both will be my game plan often heats up along the coast. throughout the winter.” Galveston — Galveston guide Capt. Tim Young of Tim Young Outdoors says UPPER COAST this December will be “day to day” for fishermen on the Galveston Bay complex. “In a normal year we would be Photo courtesy Capt. Tommy Countz wadefishing before and after fronts Capt. Tommy Countz says he puts clients on the south shore of West Matagorda after a strong during December,” said Young. “But, cold front that drops tides to very low levels. There they fish guts that run through grass flats and often they will be loaded with redfish. this is by no means a normal year. We’ve been without rainfall during the summer winter sets in. to fish in Matagorda. and fall, so our fish are still way up river “A lot of fishermen put up their boats “We’ve had trout and redfish up the and marshes. Maybe they’ll come out if

and fishing gear in December and give up Colorado River since October and by we get some heavy rains or a substantial 224 & 256 NOW AVAILABLE. Carolina are 180, 200, 220, Veriside 23’ & Highside 200 temperature drop. But, everything’s been bow shape. Sef-bailing deck, hand-laid hull & draw only 9 1/2” of water. 10-year transferable until the next spring,” said Countz. “Boy, December it is usually in full swing. If cap. Locking & storage, premium upholstery. hull warranty. Long-time Matagorda guide Capt. are they making a big mistake! Barring an you want to fish the river, you should running behind this year because of the 100% composite construction. No wood to rot! Tommy Countz cautions fishermen not appreciable drop in water temperatures, head up the Colorado north of the ICW lack of rainfall. to be too quick to store their rods once December can be one of the better months for a mile or so. “Because everything is running so “Then, start drifting the west bank late, we should has some pretty good throwing chartreuse paddle tails rigged on 3/8-ounce lead heads, working them off the shallow shelf until it drops off. A trolling motor can be invaluable for keeping your boat straight when working Still building legends, one at a time. 22’ - 25’ models availble. We also carry saltwater along the bank. bass boats by Ranger. “If you’d like to turn it up a notch try topwaters, brokenbacks, or 52 Mirrolures. These baits often separate the school trout from the bigger girls. “Another option is East Matagorda Bay. Drifting the shell-strewn west end or big mud flats on the east end is pretty productive in December. “Quarter ounce lead heads on almost any colored paddle tails will work. Wading drains off the south shore in December have produced some of my biggest trout in Matagorda. “I also like wading the south shore of West Matagorda after a strong cold front hits and drops tides to very low levels. I find guts that run through grass flats and Photo courtesy Capt. Tommy Countz Photo by Nate Skinner often they will be loaded with redfish Drift mid-bay shell reefs in East Matagorda is Capt. Tim Young says fish patterns are running late as 2016 winds down. He would not be that come out of the back areas with the an effective way to find quality speckled trout surprised to see good schools of redfish still roaming Trinity Bay in December. falling tides. in December.

44 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 45 Gel. river, redfish will be found “I’ll also be fishing the LOUISIANA COAST in the marshes off the river. lower end of the lake for On warm days, anglers can redfish. The marshes won’t experience decent sight- have any water in them casting in the marshes. On because of the north winds, cooler days, soft-plastics or live so those fish will be moving shrimp under corks will be the out of the canals. way to go for redfish. “They’ll still be Tuna action will still be schooling under small good offshore. The key to shrimp. I’ll be throwing winter tuna fishing is usually Down South Southern Shad having favorable conditions to in glow/chartreuse. make the offshore run. “Another thing I’ll However, as long as the be doing in December Over in Lake Calcasieu, birds will still weather permits safe running be working on Big Lake during the early is chasing drum and and fishing conditions, anglers Photo courtesy Capt. Randy Foreman sheepshead. You can use portion of December. Beneath flocks can usually find plenty of tuna On Sabine Lake flounder action will slow but redfish will Photo by Bill L. Olson of gulls will be good concentrations of peeled, dead shrimp. I’ll also willing to bite. still be reliable. feeding fish. In early December redfish will be roaming Sabine Lake shorelines after having been pushed out of the marsh by use some jigs with ProCure Both specks and reds will be working north winds associated with fronts. Gel. I just rub it all over the jig. I use both of those in under the birds. Although a number of those big schools of redfish in Trinity I think we’ll have pretty good fishing this either shrimp or crab. artificial lures and natural baits can be in December. We didn’t have them in December.” “We’ll also start seeing some trout on productive under the birds, the most October like we normally do, so they may Sabine Lake guide Capt. Randy the flats behind the islands on the north efficient means of catching fish feeding just show up lake. Foreman says December offers a variety end of the lake. I’ll be drifting and fishing beneath the gulls is to throw a soft-plastic “The other possibility is the fish may of angling options. one to four feet of water. I’ll be throwing jig. be in the rivers all the way through the “Early in December, we’ll still have either Southern Shad in Midnight Money Most often the reds will be below the winter. If the water gets cold before we some flounder,” said Foreman. “But, they or in Red Shad. specks. Anglers hoping to hook up with have freshwater push the fish out, they will mostly have moved out of the lake, so “And, in Keith Lake you’ll be able to a redfish should use slightly heavier jig may just stay in the river. We don’t usually I’ll be fishing for them around the jetties find a mix of redfish, black drum and heads and let the jig sink beneath the have to fish the river, we usually have and along the channel. I’ll be using jigs sheepshead. When I’m fishing up there, specks or cast to the outer edges of the plenty of fish on the ‘outside.’ But, this tipped with shrimp or covered in ProCure I’ll use a Southern Shad under a cork.” feeding fish, as reds will likely be found year we may have to. on the edges of the fray. “Things have been As long as there is bird activity on the different this year. The lack lake, most Calcasieu fishermen will be of freshwater runoff has focused on that. really changed things. The However, later in the month, when water’s salty way up the San the bird activity slows, anglers will be Jacinto River, as well as the able to find good numbers of fish around Trinity River. I mean way up the mid-bay reefs. Speckled trout will be river - where they normally holding around the reefs all winter. Some catch bass and catfish they’re redfish will also be mixed in around the catching redfish, trout and reefs, but the majority of reds will still be flounder. found along the shorelines. Trophy trout “If it gets really cold will also be found along the shorelines during December, we’ll during December, where they can be fish the deeper shell. But targeted with topwaters and slow-sinking once it warms up, we’ll go plugs. right back to wadefishing Where fishermen are able to find the shorelines. This year, speckled trout in the Venice area during more than any year I can December depends on the flow of the remember, we have to kind of Mississippi River. play it by ear and see what’s If the river is not too fresh, trout happening with the weather. will move up into the river and can be But, it should be one of our found concentrated in the deep holes. If, better Decembers. Because however, the river is full of rain runoff, everything’s running late and Photo courtesy Nate Skinner the trout will be stacked up on the outside because they’re calling for a Trophy trout will be found along Big Lake’s shorelines during December, where they can be targeted with beaches. warmer than normal winter, topwaters and slow-sinking plugs. Regardless of the situation within the

46 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 47 he phrase, “Get ‘em guys,” did the trick to bring countless will forever remind me of snow geese within range. Limits Tgoose hunting. During two of speckledbellies also fell victim of the best shoots for geese that I’ve ever to steel shot over the goose-like experienced, both guides let out this cry fakes. prior to a line of waterfowlers unloading These two scenes are prime their 12 gauges into the morning sky. On examples of the diversity both hunts wads of geese were frequently Texas waterfowl hunters can fooled into landing amongst our decoys experience over different terrains as they funneled down from above. across our state. A variety of Each time we were told to “Get ‘em,” it geese are wintering in an array seemingly rained waterfowl. of geographic locations, giving The adventures took place in two hunters an opportunity to different regions of the Lone Star State lure them in close by using an with separate outfitters. The types of assortment of strategies and fields we hunted were unalike and so were decoy spreads. the strategies employed. The Rolling Plains in the One hunt took place on a massive western portion of north central peanut field in Haskell County, located Texas along with the High Plains on the western edge of the Rolling in the western region of the Swarms of lesser Canada geese will flock to Plains. I spent this memorable encounter state and the panhandle are peanut fields in the Rolling Plains this winter. alongside hunting guide, Justin Hill of home to some primo goose Ranger Creek Goose, and several other hunting grounds. The Rolling hunters. The action was nonstop about 20 plains winters giant numbers of This goose hunter shows off a beautifully feathered minutes after sunrise when the geese lifted white-fronted geese, commonly specklebelly. from their roosts. Layout blinds kept known as specklebellies. Large us concealed while we were surrounded quantities of greater and lesser Canada winter,” he informs. by a vast spread of full body decoys and geese also migrate to this area each year. In the High Plains around Lubbock sillouhettes. We smacked our limits of The High Plains area lacks significant and Amarillo the agricultural influence lesser Canada geese and speckledbellies numbers of white-fronted geese, but it shifts from peanuts to corn. Milo and in less than an hour. regularly winters thousands of snow geese winter wheat are other predominate crops Across Texas The other hunt occurred in a cut rice and lesser Canada geese. that are farmed in this area. field on the Garwood prairie, just a little In these regions, hunters have the Whether hunting in the High or over 75 miles west of downtown Houston. option of pursuing geese in a field or Rolling Plains, effective decoy spreads over Different geographic regions offer hunting The conditions that morning were ideal over water. Tremendous agricultural dry fields incorporate both full body and opportunities to shoot geese using a variety for goose hunting and I joined Red Bluff production provides hunters with large, silhouette decoys that are spaced out in Prairie Hunting Club guide, Clint Kacal, dry fields to hunt geese over crops, while the shape of a funnel. The narrow end of of strategies. along with his party of three. Strong north playa lakes give hunters a completely the spread should be oriented downwind winds combined with a heavy sky kept different scenario. with the wider end positioned upwind. Story and photography by Nate Skinner immense flocks of snow geese flying low The peanut industry rules the Hunters need to situate themselves in a This young hunter made some great memories on a goose hunt. and piling right into our faces. A teardrop- agricultural production in the Rolling straight line across the width of the spread shaped white spread of sillhouette decoys Plains, especially within Haskell and Knox in the middle of the funnel. Layout blinds counties. According covered in stubble from the field will to the Texas Parks provide the most concealment. and Wildlife Playa lakes within the Rolling and High Department Plains provide a roosting area, as well as a Waterfowl Program loafing and water source for geese. Kraai Leader, Kevin says playas are a key ingredient to the Kraai, the largest waterfowl habitat in this region and they population of are in great shape this year. greater white- “Playa lakes are a natural chain of fronted geese in the wetlands that rely on rainfall to maintain entire state winters their water levels,” explains Kraai. “They here. average around 15 acres in size, and many “This population are full with the amount of rain we’ve had of birds nests in this past spring and summer.” interior Alaska and Hunting playa lakes is unique in that White spreads of silhouette decoys are the best way to bring snow migrates to these it allows for a later start to the morning. Lay out blinds work the best to conceal hunters in a dry field. geese and speckledbellies into range on coastal rice prairies. peanut fields each The best action on these hunts takes place

december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 49 spaced out to give the birds a landing zone. front of them. This gives the birds a To the south, coastal rice prairies give landing zone that is within shotgun range. waterfowlers a different taste of the sport. Goose hunting is not an activity for Rice fields near Eagle Lake, Garwood, the weary kind. The sport often begins El Campo and Bay City to name a few well before sunrise when hunters set out areas, attract thousands of snow geese a decoy spread prior to the birds leaving and specklebellies. Here white spreads of their roost. silhouette decoys in the shape of a teardrop Some of the best mornings occur when or a pear work the best. The narrow end the bite from the frigid air is strengthened of the spread should be downwind of the by a moderate breeze. Throw in some wider end. Hunters may choose to place heavy cloud cover, a light mist, or some this spread on the edge of a field and hide occasional sleet and it’s a goose fanatic’s behind a levee. They can also set up in dream in the making. a lower, flatter part of the field and cover Despite the sometimes harsh up with a camouflage ghillie blanket. elements, hunters with the right gear will Hunters should position themselves in remain comfortable. Over the years I’ve the widest section of the teardrop for the learned that it’s much better to be over best shooting opportunities. prepared for the weather rather than Owner and operator of Red Bluff unprepared. Layers can always be shed, Prairie Hunting club, Mike Lanier but hunter’s can’t reach for outerwear indicates the Garwood prairie has more they didn’t bring along. Waders and a A goose hunter waves a flag at geese in the distance to get their attention as they leave feed available for geese than it has had waterproof jacket are a necessity. They are their roost at sunrise. in years. a nice option to have, even when hunting “This is a result of all the rain we have a dry field. when the birds return to the bodies of had in the growing season during the past Rapid action from decoying birds tends water to loaf after a morning of feeding two years,” he explains. “With the amount to drown out the effects of cold weather, in nearby fields. of rice on the prairie, I expect this goose and the view of large concentrations of The best place for hunters to set up is season to be a phenomenal one.” geese spiraling down like a tornado can on the bank of the playa with the wind at Marshes along the coast provide be breathtaking. This is an incredible their back. Custom built blinds brushed yet another way for hunters to chase experience for family and friends to share in with surrounding vegetation work well geese. These areas typically see moderate together during the Christmas season, in this situation and so do low profile numbers of snow geese and specklebellies. and effective decoy spreads will ensure layout blinds. Some of the best areas lie within or memories are made. Productive decoy spreads for hunting adjacent to freshwater potholes and playas include a combination of full wetlands located in wildlife refuges. Choosing a Guide body decoys, silhouettes and floaters. The San Bernard National Wildlife Dense concentrations of full body decoys Refuge is one area on the upper coast Obtaining enough goose decoys for should be placed along the bank of the that winters plenty of geese each year a spread that’s worthy of coaxing in large playa around the blind where hunters are and allows hunters access. Information numbers of geese can be expensive. Find- hiding. Silhouettes should be scattered a on hunting wildlife refuges like the San ing a decent place to hunt that is holding little further away from either side of the Bernard National Wildlife Refuge can be plenty of birds can also be difficult. Some- blind as well as behind it. A couple of found through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife times the most affordable way to get in on dozen floater decoys set out in front of the Service at www.fws.gov. a memorable goose hunt is to hire a guide. blind in the water should be generously When setting up in the marsh, a The two outfitters mentioned at the begin- moderate spread of ning of this article are outstanding. When floater specklebelly choosing a guide to book a hunt with, decoys and a few snows hunters should ask the following questions: works best. Adding •Does the outfitter mix different par- some duck decoys into ties? — In other words, will hunters be the mix will also make matched up with other hunters they do the spread look natural, not know? as copious amounts of •When is the last time the guide scouted ducks winter alongside his fields? —The birds move and hunters the geese. Hunters will want to know they are going in on an should set up with area that is presently holding geese. To date, Ducks Unlimited has conserved over To learn more about how to start or join a DU the wind at their back •What type of terrain will be encoun- and leave a hole in the tered? —This will help hunters decide what 13 million acres of waterfowl habitat. Our chapter at your high school, please visit www. Corn fields in the High Plains offer hunters plenty of shots at lesser middle of the spread gear is necessary for their trip. Varsity chapters play an important role in ducks.org/varsity or contact DU Manager of Canada geese. that is directly out in our mission of conservation all while making Youth & Education Programs Mark Horobetz 50 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 51 friends and having a good time. at 901-758-3892. For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67,69 & 71 If largemouths are your quarry, Jay McBride, at Lake Roundup McBride Guns, reports that bass are coming up through the branches and leaves of flooded timber on Lake you an idea of how many fish that would The only saving grace to the incident is Travis to smack smoke glitter be, last year, TPWD stocked just under that, unlike when American vessels strike grubs. Nothing new here. 20,000 rainbows in the Canyon Lake something besides an intended dock, this That’s been the number one tailrace on the Guadalupe River west catastrophe merely tore a gap in a large bass lure on Trav for eons. of New Braunfels. That’s only a fourth net instead of covering the harbor with Allen Christenson put me as many trout as were recently released petroleum. on the gray grubs 20 years in Denmark. And that stocking in the But if that tale of Scandinavian woe ago. I went in McBride’s the Guadalupe was large enough to cause incited a yen to catch trout, now’s the same day and started to say quite a stir among fishermen. time to do it. December signals the start of Allen had recommended … According to Reuters, as reported TPWD’s annual trout stocking in streams and Jay finished the sentence in the Copenhagen Post, a cargo ship all across Texas. A number of them are in for me. He well-knew of collided with a net owned by a fish farm Central Texas, and our government is also the lure’s success, and knew in a harbor on the Danish Sea, releasing urging fishermen to go catch up to five Allen used it. Guadalupe bass the fish into said sea. The trout were of them a day. Most of the stocked trout do back flips over it, too. scheduled to be slaughtered for market the are fairly small – certainly well below the Another lure you need to By John Jefferson week following the accident. Estimated 6.5-pound rainbows now in the Danish know about is the new Sébile value of the fish was said to be $1.5 sea, but they are extremely fun to catch. Flatt Shad Snagless. It bumps Photo by John Jefferson My best advice might have been to million. If you decide to go try to catch Both experienced fly fishermen and young along with a big belly at an book a flight to Denmark. And that has up some supper there, you might want anglers with Snoopy rods can have fun angle that helps it glance off A smallmouth bass caught on the first cast of a new day of fishing with a brand new lure! nothing to do with wanting to escape the to tell your wife that figure. It probably catching the scrappy, colorful fish. stumps and branches as its country following the recent election. somewhat exceeds what you tell her the Most of the 19,000-plus rainbows are double hook hides behind the belly. I got for an early spring spawn. wet winter. They’re now saying dry and ¡Al Contrario! This column is about fish you bring home are worth. stocked just below Canyon Dam and for one from my friend Kevin Jarnagin, who The weather forecast has changed somewhat mild. So that means a longer fishing and having fun. That’s an escape Since the trout were already in salt several miles downstream. By the time represents Sébile, and fished it in strange again, so disregard what I wrote a few fall fishing season. And possibly more that‘s usually free, unless you spend a lot water, they probably adapted quickly to you read this, the stocking schedule will water in a river in northwest Maine in late months earlier about a coming cold, enjoyable weather. Enjoy it! of dough on tackle and transportation to their new found freedom. The report said be posted on the TPWD website: www. September. On the very first cast, I caught a distant site. And, sure, flying to Denmark it would take them several days to adjust tpwd.texas.gov. The fish are stocked in a smallmouth bass! On subsequent casts, would cost you a bundle – especially since to fending for a living themselves after places where the public has access, making I felt it bump off unseen stuff, but it never there are 11 or 12 lakes available to Central being on entitlements from the fish farm. it convenient. The fish are intended to hung up. However, when you’re casting in Texas anglers within a conversation’s drive The trouble in Denmark, though, is that be caught, and most do not survive very tight overhead cover on a very windy day, away from their home. But if you could the sea trout are about to spawn and the long in the river. The Guadalupe, although Kevin doesn’t guarantee that it’ll avoid muster up the dinero for a trans-Atlantic recently released rainbows are expected probably more closely resembling a leafy tree limbs up in the sky. Guess I got flight, it could be a fisherman’s dream to follow right behind them gobbling up Colorado trout stream with its cold water excited … and careless. And wanted to cry. come true. their eggs as soon as they are launched. To from the depths of the lake behind the I wasn’t through fishing with it! Imagine if you can that 80,000 the Danes, that’s not a good thing. dam crashing over downstream rocks and Another friend, Randy Brudnicki, six-pound - plus rainbow trout were The cargo ship flew a Russian flag, gathering oxygen as it does, is the best publisher of Texas Parks and Wildlife just released into open waters and the and the fish farm is considering a lawsuit. Texas has to offer. But it’s not ideal, and Magazine, and a successful tournament government said grab your rod and reel Good luck with that. Putin seems to have few trout, if any, last very long in it. And if fisherman, told me he is having unexpected and go catch as many as you can. To give other fish to fry right now. water conditions and fishermen don’t get luck fishing the hot water discharge ‘em, the little boogers still have to worry channel on Walter E. Long Reservoir. about striped bass. They love rainbows as And he does it in the afternoons. Most much as we do! For these little stockers, guides fish it in the mornings, especially best baits are little balls of Velveeta cheese, during the summer. I asked James Roberts, earthworms, salmon eggs and grains of a guide with whom I have fished the lake, yellow corn (canned). Mepps and Panther about that. He told of a young man that Martin spinners work well, too regularly fishes there with a topwater Trout Unlimited stocks larger fish frog in the reeds along the channel in the a little further away from the dam, but afternoon. And he catches bass. Nice ones. still in the cold, swift, oxygenated water One last tip: Jay McBride reports that from the bottom of Canyon Dam. Most white bass were staging around Red Bud were near 20-inches in length. Special Island on Lady Bird Lake in late October. regulations apply, though, so see page 41 That sounds a little early, but it’s been a of the TPW Outdoor Annual that is free strange year, so anything is possible. Jay’s with your license purchase. source caught enough to make a good case

52 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 53 JUST HUNTING | Bill L. Olson Hunting Gear available and they come in vacuum seal/ Cutting tools: Besides my Browning re-sealable bags of different sizes. What’s In That Pack? three-blade folding knife I have carried I also carry some individual bags of on my belt for years I carry a fixed blade “Cups Of Soup,” hot chocolate and tea hunting knife and sharpening stone. bag or instant coffee. With a canteen of Also packed is a small folding saw and water and the metal cup I simply carry a pruning shears. super lightweight (3 ounces) solid tablet When big game hunting a daypack is available help is slim — but not out-of- ability to find or create shelter can be a Clothing: Camo facemask, bandana, stove to heat or boil water to make hot as important as anything else a hunter the-question. There may be a time when lifesaver from hypothermia. change of socks, and a watch cap are soup or drink. might take to the field. you are the only one on the property and A 10’ x 10’ piece of 6 mil polyethylene just a few items I keep in the pack. Plus Depending upon where a hunt is In an emergency what is inside is even need assistance. carried in the bottom of the pack along dressing in layers allows items to be shed to take place items can be added or more important. The following are some basics items with some 550 parachute cord will or added as temperatures warm or cool. deleted. Sitting in a box blind will require Whether hunting elk, mule deer or most hunters should have with them. construct a shelter/windbreak. Also an With a daypack these items can be kept different items than when still-hunting. other big game from Alberta to whitetails Basics emergency blanket and a military style when not in use. Going for big game out west will call for in Texas or old Mexico my daypack Water: Staying hydrated is paramount. rain poncho can serve multiple purposes Calls & Stuff: Game calls, a short different pack items than when hunting is with me and its content is adjusted I carry a military plastic canteen and as needed. roll of orange surveyors flagging, extra whitetail deer in the heavily subdivided slightly based on where, when and how metal cup. Additionally a Sawyer Mini First Aid: It happens and a good flashlight and batteries/flashlight are portions of Texas. I’ll be hunting. The major difference is Filtration System allows safe drinking pack first aid kit will provide necessary kept in the pack. Some items like calls Like the Boy Scout motto, “Be whether I might have to spend the night water to be replenished from a variety of bandages, blood clotting treatment, with lanyards are placed around my neck Prepared” suggests to have a plan and away from camp. sources including streams, springs, even simple remedies for a headache, or small once in the field. skill set in advance. Plus, it’s better to A good way to keep a pack organized livestock troughs. vials to hold prescription medication. Extra shells are carried in an Uncle have a little more than is needed rather is the use of small stuff stacks. Color- Fire: I will be able to make a fire. Over time make sure to update any dated Mike’s elastic shell holder that fits on than needing something and not having coded for different purposes fire starting Multiple fire making tools are carried supplies to keep the kit current. the stock of my rifle. A few additional it — within reason of course. tools, calls, or other survival and tools consisting of a simple butane lighter Navigation: Old school habits still shells can be carried can be kept together rather than being (not very good in sub-freezing weather), has me carry a reliable compass and the in the pack in a loose in the bottom of the pack. wind-proof matches, steel & striker and skill-set to navigate with it. Additionally, similar holder or with In Texas, where most whitetail deer magnesium bar with steel when hunting higher elevations in this a couple of rubber hunting is done on private land the Shelter: While sometimes not as stuff sack is a small altimeter and Kestrel bands around them. prospects of getting “stuck” away from important when hunting in Texas the Weather Meter. Communication: Most don’t travel without a cell phone, however there is not always a signal available, even in Texas. In remote areas it is “cheap” insurance to carry a satellite phone. Be sure to turn your phone off or to vibrate when hunting. Signaling devices include at the least a Storm Safety Whistle. It’s better than yelling and remember three blasts represents a distress call (blast- pause-blast-pause- blast). Snacks & Eats: Snakes keep us satisfied until a meal plus it helps keep us warm. Ken’s Cowboy Beef Jerky is my favorite field snack. Their Hot & Spicy is The author has carried this daypack on big game hunts from one of my favorites Alberta, throughout the Rocky Mountains, Texas and Old Mexico. with other flavors Inside is carried safety items, hunting gear plus water and snacks.

54 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 55 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67,69 & 71 exposes fields of stumps and it pushes a drop water temperatures could bolster a November, fishing up north probably lot of fish off of flats, concentrating them deep bite in water ranging 15-25 feet that won’t be a good idea. Lake Roundup along creeks. Big flatheads and blues will hasn’t existed in quite a while. Spoons, “It’s just too hard to get around — like to cruise the channel to dine on all the Carolina rigs, deep cranks and drop shots it’s basically off one and on another,” succulent goodies. are the main orders of the day when Vandergriff said. “I’ll stay from mid-lake Charlie Shivley at Bill’s Landing likes the bass are gathered around offshore south if it stays low.” times you can catch multiple fish from the deep diving cranks, drop shots and to bait his stump hooks with live perch, structure, he said. Vandergriff says one of the better exact same spot. spoons. but cut bait can be equally effective at Johnston says winter crappie fishing patterns for big fish is fishing docks with The offshore bite should be kicked Catfish prospects can be equally good times. hinges a lot on the weather and river flow. brush in 4-6 feet of water. His go bait EAST TEXAS in pretty good by now. This will be a this month, if not better. Terpe says the As for bass fishing, fishing guide “It can be really good up the Angelina there is a jig. numbers deal more than anything else. best bite will be around baited holes in Stephen Johnston says anglers should be arm near the Highway 103 bridge, but “There will also be some crankbait and For best results, use your electronics water ranging 18-22 feet deep along the able to fish shallow, mid-range or deep it’s got to be right,” he said. “If we get a Carolina fish on points in 12-14 feet,” he to survey main lake points, humps and edges of of the San Jacinto river or major and catch some solid fish. For numbers, he bunch of rain and current it’ll really slow said. “Some of the better ones will be near structure to locate groups of fish. While creeks. suggests targeting timber lines and main things down.” channel swings.” there are no guarantees the fish will bite, “The numbers will be good and lake structure in 20-30 feet of water using By late December anglers could begin The guide said crappie fishing should be this will save you gobs of time in locating quality is usually better once the water a drop shot rig or jigging spoon. seeing the first early signs of the annual good and steadily improving throughout potentially productive areas because you cools off,” Terpe says. “You’ll occasionally find a big one white bass run up the Angelina River. The the month as water temperatures continue will know whether or not fish are present Crappie? No secrets, here. The guide out there, but it’s better for keepers than fish will gather along river bends and old to cool. The best bite will be at the before the first cast is made. says brush piles in 18-22 feet are the ticket, anything else,” he said. sloughs, where anglers can work them Highway 155 Bridge crossing in 23-24 feet Spoons like Bomber Slab are good although the bridge pilings at the FM 1097 Johnston thinks the better quality fish over on assorted baits like crankbaits, of water and around brush piles in 10-15 choices, as are Carolina rigs, shaky heads, crossing also will be holding some fish. will be holding in water ranging 12-20 feet Rat-L-Traps and 1/4 ounce Roadrunners. feet, mainly on jigs. By Matt Williams drop shots and Fumble Bug rigs. TOLEDO BEND — Toledo Bend was deep around main lake points and the PALESTINE — Lake Palestine fishing Channel cat will be equally active this CONROE — Lake Conroe fishing guide about four feet low and still falling as of edges of flats. He’ll target these areas using guide Ricky Vandergriff says the way he’ll month and the quality should steadily NACOGDOCHES — Lake Nacogdoches Butch Terpe says December always brings this writing. With no big rain events in a Carolina rig, football jig and cranking approach his home water come December improve with good numbers of channel entered late fall in great shape with clear cooler weather to southeast Texas to chill sight, water levels should be even lower by plug like a DD14 or Strike King 6XD. will hinge a lot on water level. The lake cat in the 1-3 pound range coming around water and just over a foot low. It would water temps and put bass, catfish and the time December rolls around. “If we don’t get a bunch of rain there was about 1.63 feet low and falling as of baited holes in 13-16 feet. Punch bait and have been nice to see the hydrilla bounce other sporting predators in an aggressive Low water in fall sets the stage for some will be some fish moving into the creeks this writing, making it exceptionally tough night crawlers are the orders of the day. back a little better before winter, but it mood. outstanding stump-hooking for big cats and setting up around bends in 8-12 feet,” to get around the lake’s upper reaches. If “We’ll also see some big blues and didn’t. About eight feet is the deepest “December is usually a pretty good at the lake’s upper reaches. Low water he said. “You can catch ‘em on a Texas rig water levels continued to drop through flatheads on jug lines,” Vandergriff said. you’ll find it. month,” says Terpe. “The or light jig.” December 21 marks the first day bass are going to be stacking December crappie fishing prospects winter, but that doesn’t necessarily mean on weight and they’ll feed are going to hinge a lot on the weather. cold weather in eastern Texas. I’ve fished pretty strong at times.” Johnston says the Chicken Coop area of in shorts more than once this time of year. Terpe says several the Sabine near mid-lake along the Texas Water temperatures will likely be in the patterns should be in play shore will hold lots of promise if it turns 60s, possibly the upper 50s, by the time this month. If you want off cold. The fish like to suspend around this issue of TOJ hits the streets. Barring to fish shallow, he suggests 20-35 feet deep over 70 feet of water. any big rains to turn the lake into frothy keying on grass, flooded “The main thing you don’t want is pool of mud, the bass fishing should be bushes, lay downs and river flow,” he said. “It’ll kill the bite if we pretty darned good. stickups with Texas plastics, get a bunch of rain and current. If the lake Up shallow, anglers should key on Chatterbaits, square bill is stable, the fishing can be outstanding, submerged grass beds and lily pad plastics and spinnerbaits. especially in really cold weather.” stubble using assorted moving baits Rocks at various bridge SAM RAYBURN — Rayburn was just like Chatterbaits, spinnerbaits, swim crossings and around over two feet low as October gave way to baits, lipless crankbaits and square bill Walden and the Palms also November. According to Johnston, finding crankbaits. Topwaters like a Whopper will be holding some fish, and catching bass could be somewhat of Plopper, buzz bait or Yellow Magic also as will some of the deeper a crap shoot. will be worth a try, especially if the water boat docks “We won’t have much of a grass temps remain mild. “The water rarely gets (hydrilla) bite because there isn’t much Upper lake flats located in close real cold on Conroe, so grass to speak of,” Johnston said. “There proximity to creek channel bends and there are usually going to be will be some fish up shallow around the underwater sloughs will definitely be quite a few fish shallow that hay grass that you can catch on swim jigs, worth a look this month. The key is to will be hanging around any spinnerbaits and ‘Traps, but there are also cover plenty of water and fish potential available cover.” going to be some fish on points in 6-10 sweet spots thoroughly. In deeper water, the feet of water that will be following the If you happen to catch a fish, don’t guide suggests targeting Photo courtesy Richard JuE bait around. Carolina rigs, crankbaits and assume it’s the only one around. Anchor main lake points, old pond Cooler weather in December will have hybrid stripers and Texas rigs will be the best ways to catch down or use the trolling motor to stay off dams, humps and channel other predatory gamefish on Lake Conroe in an aggressive those fish.” the spot and make repeated casts. Often breaks using Carolina rigs, mood. Johnston added that cold weather to

56 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 57 LIVINGSTON — Lake Livingston desire. from 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Only bank fishing can be ok at Cedar Creek until warmth and this will draw in the bass. You can use crappie jigs or minnows, bass fishing guide Randy Dearman The trick lies in choosing the right fishermen may use the lake on Thursdays. the water temperature drops into the Slow moving baits like the Texas-rig and but longtime slab chasers swear that jigs says December is not well known for species, and the right lake for that Additionally only 100 boats will be lower fifties. At that point crappie seem to jig along the base of the rocks is a good work better in the winter months than live producing big numbers his home lake. species. For example, bass fishermen allowed at any one time and you can disappear. Many guides on Cedar Creek plan. Deep diving crankbaits along the bait. Fork is another lake with the special But if you are looking for a few quality need to decide between largemouth and only sign up for one day at a time, per will move over to Lake ‘O the Pines to middle portion of rocks will also produce crappie regulations and all fish must be bites he says it is definitely worth a look. smallmouth bass. For those looking for weekend. You must pre-register for access catch crappie. some fish. retained through the end of February, “December is when some of the bigger smallies, Texoma is the premier North and registration can be found at www. LAKE ‘O THE PINES — When winter FORK — If we see mild temperatures regardless of length. fish are caught on Livingston,” he said. Texas option, while largemouth fishermen luminant.com/squawcreekpark/register. fishing for crappie at LOP channels will be in December you may want to start your Rainbow trout, as stocked by TPWD, “The fish are going to be feeding up for would want to focus on one of the several aspx-- key. Start at the sides of channels, humps day with a spinnerbait or lipless crankbait. are easy to catch. Beginning in November, winter and they’ll be fat. The main key power plant lakes. MONTICELLO — Outlet Bay, as the points and drops—anywhere contours More than likely you’ll want to fish jigs these stockings occur in hundreds of is water clarity. If we get a bunch of rain As a reminder, power plant lakes have name implies, is where the outlet pipe is change. You can drift a jighead across and Texas-rigged worms. Use black/ locations across the state into March. upstream it can hurt the fishing because the benefit of being warmer in portions located on Monticello. Bass fishermen the structure or use your trolling motor. brown, black/blue and green pumpkin. Try using a small light, or ultra-light, the lake can get muddy with the big inflow of the lake. Water is brought in through will want to use moving baits such as Drop your bait to just off the bottom, and Consider red shad and Junebug as well. spinning rods, and with no more than of the Trinity River. The bite is always best intake pipes to cool the plant and then spinnerbaits in shad colors and lipless cover lots of water. You’ll be fishing in 25 Target active fish in the shallows, early in four pound test. when the water is fairly clear.” discharged through outlet pipes back crankbaits in red. You may also try shad feet or more. the month. Use a treble hooks in the 12-14 size, Livingston is a relatively shallow lake into the lake. colors like black back/chrome or blue REMEMBER! All crappie caught By the middle of the month fish will be with a very small barrel swivel about 16”- as the result of years of siltation. As a The water in the vicinity of the back/chrome or go the other direction from December 1 through the last day less active and you’ll want to change to a 18” above the hook. This allows the bait to result, a lot of the fish live shallow year- discharge is substantially warmer than with a “shock” color like firetiger. of February, there is no minimum length suspending hard jerkbait. The drop-shot turn without twisting the line, and adds a round because they have no other choice. surrounding lake waters. This makes for As you move out towards colder water limit and all crappie caught must be will also produce on these slow moving little weight for casting. During December, Dearman always more active fish in the colder months. you’ll want to slow down and throw craws retained. The year-round limit is 25 per fish. As for bait, salmon eggs, canned corn begins his search around creek channels in Obviously, you’ll want to focus most of and lizards on a Texas-rig. day in any combination. A spoon or Alabama rig in the same nuggets, processed cheese or any of the water ranging 3-8 feet deep. He preferred your attention at or near the outlet to take Crappie will be a little deeper around RAY HUBBARD — I rarely go to Ray places may produce as well. Look for the prepared baits like the Berkley Trout Eggs baits include a spinnerbait, square bill advantage of the warmer water. It will also the brush. Look at the many submerged Hubbard until winter because of all the baitfish and the Yellow Bass on your graph or Power Nibbles will do nicely for winter crank and a Texas rigged Rage Craw. be helpful to look up each power plants roadbeds on the lake until you mark two recreational traffic it gets. Once the cold and drop these baits on the fish. If bass are trout. Hard tackle fans can use the Super- December also is the month when generating schedule, to determine when or three brushpiles in 15-20 feet of water. sets in and the jet-ski, wakeboard crowd around they’ll let you know. Duper, Rooster Tail, or Panther Martin. white bass will be on the move up north the outlets will be warming the waters Fish these with crappie jigs, or crappie rigs leaves December fishing on Ray Hubbard Crappie will be near the dam and easy Yep, Texas offers plenty of opportunity in preparation for their annual spawning around them. and minnows. can be great. to find. Just look for the boats. Quietly find this December. You just have to take run. Dearman says there will be plenty of SQUAW CREEK — At Squaw Creek WELSH — As with other power plant Look south of the Rush Creek Yacht a spot to join them — be polite and you advantage of those opportunities, so let’s fish setting up along as well as the Trinity there are several bait options for bass. lakes Welsh fish respond to lizards or Club, for the sand bass. They’ll gather should be welcome to the party. go fishing. River channel up north. Dearman says A Carolina-rig using either a seven inch craws in watermelon/red flake or black/ in schools right off the bottom. Be ready the best way to find them is probe around Power Worm in Blue Fleck or a French blue, on a Texas rig. with stout gear as you may catch hybrid underwater sandbars using a crankbait or fry-type bait in chartreuse/pepper will Fish those shallow, along with Senkos, stripers or big blue catfish there also. Try a Rat-L-Trap. be effective. Most use a three to four foot ‘traps and jerkbaits. Fish any grass near weight on the end of the line and a 1/8oz. “White bass run in schools, so where leader. timber. Stay with natural colors unless spoon on a loop about three feet above you find one you’ll likely find a bunch,” Deep points and the main lake humps rains stain the water, then use your the weight. This puts the lure above the he said. are the place for a deep diving crankbait. bubblegums, chartreuses or such. You fish, which hold tight against the bottom. Try the Fat Free Shad or Foxy Shad, or may also try the Ribbit frog in white with Hybrid striper fishing will be best in an XD. Use primarily shad or chartreuse chartreuse feet. the area around the Red barn as locals call colors. As you get nearer the thicker Spinnerbaits around the main lake on it. There is a big red barn on the shore, NORTH TEXAS timber, change over to a Texas rigged windy points will produce a lot of fish as hence the name. The cove below the power worm, staying in the five to fifteen foot Welsh is a particularly good spinnerbait plant is another reference point. Drift a range. lake. sassy shad-type bait across these areas Catfish will hold in both the colder Stick with the basic white, white/ about 20 feet or so deep. water, and the warm water areas of the chartreuse colors. Square-bill crankbaits You may be over as much as 30 feet of lake. Fresh cut, or live, baits will be the also work on the points. Either natural water but keep the bait about 10 feet off ticket and you’ll want to fish near the creek shad colors or “shock” colors like a the bottom here. mouths and timber edges. firetiger are the choices. The crappie barges on Ray Hubbard Look under trees with cormorants Carolina-rig the deeper sections of the offer a good shot at catching fish and in them. When a cormorants eats fish it discharge area for the best results. Baby provide the added benefit of shelter from doesn’t completely digest all the fish it Ring Fries, Bass Assassins and 4” Senkos the elements. For the angler willing to ingests. When it rests on a tree branch in various shades of chartreuse should get brave the weather, try the bridge at Harbor it will “expel” bits of this undigested fish some attention from these bass. Bay Marina, fish the pilings and more By Brian Hughes into the water below and the catfish feed CEDAR CREEK— December means specifically pilings two, three and four. on the undigested fish. deep sand bass. Look to the channels and Crappie jigs will produce your limits. December fishing can be fantastic in Squaw Creek is a property of the look somewhere deeper than thirty feet. Bass fishermen may want to focus North Texas. Our winters are mild enough Luminant energy company and as such it Use flukes and assassins on a jighead of on the rocks along the I-30 bridges, that you will probably have several days has some specific regulations put in place about one-half ounce or better. Try some especially early in the month and as long that are perfect for fishing. If you choose by the company. The lake is only open to shade of blue, and drop it to the channel as temperatures are moderate. Sunny wisely, you may catch all the fish you boaters on Friday, Saturday and Sunday edges around the main lake. Crappie days will see the rocks providing reflected 58 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 59 GUNS ‘N STUFF | Harold Gunn but I have no interest in carrying open in The elegant JETTISON polite society. Mernickle Custom Holsters is designed by Texan Stuff for the Stocking has answered the need for a concealed Robert Carter. The carry holster for the single-action. Bob 3.26 inch modified Mernickle has filled the demanding sheepsfoot blade needs of fast draw and cowboy action deploys with a lightning shooters for a long time. This experience fast flipper/guard from A small package can be a big hit at and play. The lenses are led to his creation of the Conceal-Carry the stonewash stainless Christmas time. Whether in a stocking impact resistant and Performance Series and The Single Action steel frame lock handle. hung with care or under the tree here are polarized, the frame is Extreme PS65A. This high ride design gets Both of these knives some gift items that are sure to please. a sturdy polycarbonate the 3 1/2 to 5 1/2 inch barrel of your six- are under $49.99. The Cameras in smart phones have come a and frame colors are shooter above the hem of your coat while cute and handy BITA long way in picture quality and are handy black, flat black and holding the pistol tight into your side. The designed by Voxnaes as heck, but have you ever tried to use camo. The works only unique three belt slot configuration allows is a 1.9-inch fixed one and shoot at the same time? Enter weights 2.29 oz. and for strong side or cross draw carry with the blade of bead blasted The hand I-KamXtreme glasses and HEXMAGS. i-KamXtreme from Hunter’s Specialties. since it records where latter being perfect while driving. stainless steel ready for This brilliant idea is a 720p HD digital you look these are super These superb holsters start at only utility work and more from your pocket or adds more customization The anti-tilt video camera inside a pair of shooting for recording that trophy $79.99 and go up based on choice of hanging from your neck with the included follower keeps ammo straight for reliable glasses! These specs offer hands-free video shot or discovering your leather or carving. Yes, he has them for sheath and lanyard. This little gem is $ feeding and the heat treated stainless steel and audio recording with one button mistakes on that right to your auto. Check the choices at www. 39.99 and all at www.crkt.com. spring allows for long term storage while operation in a lightweight pair of glasses. left crossing clay. Give mernickleholsters.com. In our current State of the Union fully charged. There are 8 gigs of storage built in and the these a look at www. JM4 Tactical of Abilene, Texas has we cannot have too many 30-round The HexID Color System allows for glasses accept up to 32 GB with a Micro hunterspec.com. created a unique holster described with magazines for our beloved AR. The new changing the colors of the floor plate Clockwise from top: The CRKT Jettison, Bita and Amicus Compact SD card. Nexbelt, promoted the line “Changing the way you carry” HEXMAG is the perfect combination of button and follower to easily identify Knife. The internal rechargeable battery as “The belt with no and an instruction manual titled “Quick, lightweight and durability. magazines loaded with different type and offers 90 minutes of power. Just plug in to holes” is another product I wish I had two screws through the belt and it is Click & Carry.” These rigs are all of this Made from impact resistant reinforced weights of bullets. Visit www.hexmag.com your PC or MAC to recharge, download thought of. This is an elegant “one size fits solidly secured. and more. The QCC is the first and only polymer the hexagonal side surfaces and for this and other products. most” approach that really Then next PreciseFit attribute is Magnetic Retention holster. By the use front and rear ribbing makes for a great A Merry Christmas to all and be safe works. Based around their a ridged section of polyamide nylon of rare earth magnets in the holster and grab. Available peel and stick grip tape out there. PreciseFit system it begins stitched into the middle of the inside of attached flap you simply holster your with belts that go up to a the belt. These ridges are in ¼ increments. firearm, put the holster in your pants and 50-inch waist size. An inch When pushed through the buckle they let the flap drop outside your pants for a scale on the inside allows ratchet and lock on each ridge. This makes solid contact. you to quickly add their getting a comfortable fit extremely easy. The inside holster magnet also helps recommended extra three To adjust or remove the belt you hold retain your firearm. This allows carry inches and cut with a good a release leaver on the underside of the in everything from jeans to yoga pants. pair of scissors or you can buckle. Though designed for inside the waste put on your pants and belt The belts are constructed of sturdy carry it works between your belt and and find your sweet spot. high density nylon composite mixed with pants. An added benefit is you can stick Once cut attach the belt polyester for extra stiffness and durability. it to your office file cabinet, fridge or steel to the buckle with a clasp The leather versions have the same nylon parts of your vehicle. similar to the military brass backing. They have several choices of The pouch like construction of the From left: The Mernickle Single Action Extreme, Nexbelt and buckle, but many times belt and buckle styles for tactical, sport JM4 QCC allows the small to extra large JM4 Tactical QCC Holister. stronger. Then tighten down and dress use. This system allows you to sizes to accommodate dozens of firearms. quickly and easily adjust the belt for inside The holster will conform to the one you or outside the pants carry or simply offer carry the most. This is the easiest on and OUTDOORS AND OUT OF CELL COVERAGE? some extra room after too much chow. off rig I have ever tested and the vegetable STAY IN TOUCH WITH A SATELLITE PHONE Well priced in the $40 to $60 range you tanned leather is top quality. The QCC can try them on for size at www.nexbelt. is an excellent value beginning at $69.95 com. and are available only on line at www. RENT or BUY I am an admitted fan of single action jm4tactical.com. From a top Texas Service Provider handguns and have always thought they Just in time for the gift giving season, are a viable choice as a carry gun. They Columbia River Knife and Tool Co. offers or were to go to choice for a major part of three new blades. The AMICUS Compact the eighteen hundreds and good enough designed by Jesper Voxnaes in Denmark Call us today 877 614 2666 for Wyatt Earp is good enough for me. I’ll is a 3-inch blade brother to the rock solid take six rounds of .45 Colt over 10 rounds 3/12-inch original. www.g-comm.us of 9mm any day. The stainless frame lock is extremely Holster choices for open carry abound, rugged and the other side is grippy G10.

60 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 61 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67,69 & 71 Lake Roundup

can also catch some fish by working those “We had a very warm October,” Gallagher SOUTH TEXAS spinnerbaits along the front and along the said. “But once the fronts started coming edges of the grass beds. through and the days got shorter, our water “But, our best method of catching cooled down to about where it should be for these fish during December has been dead- November. But, because the water stayed a sticking Berkley Sinking Minnows or flukes. little warmer, we’ve actually had some shallow Watermelon/red is always our best color. We’ll water activity a little later than normal. So, throw those baits either unweighted or with we’ve had a decent topwater bite lately. That just a little BB at the most. Sometimes I like topwater bite should continue into the first to put a little BB on the front so the bait falls couple weeks of December – or at least until nose down, just to change it up a bit. But, the water temperature really drops. It depends basically, you don’t want to move that bait on when we get a few strong fronts. But, if much – just let it fall. Sometimes the fish don’t everything holds up like it is, we should get a want any action on the lure. week or two of good topwater action. By Danno Wise “During December, I’ll stay mainly on the “During those first two weeks of points. I’ll just move from one point to the December, before it gets really cold, the fish Even in South Texas, December usually next. You can almost always find fish on the will stay relatively shallow all day on a cloudy ushers in some fairly cold weather. Given the points during December. or overcast day. On those cloudy days, I like warm autumn experienced across Texas this “Again, December is when we start seeing a twitch-type surface bait. If you don’t get year, most South Texas lakes will still see fish the action around the hot water discharge some action on top, try throwing some mid- holding in a fall-like pattern at the beginning pick up. The colder the weather gets, the running crankbaits. When it gets bright and of December. better the fishing is around the discharge. sunny, try slow-rolling spinnerbaits along However, it is unlikely to make it to the And, all different sorts of fish hang out ledges and points. Of course, towards the end end of the year without fish transitioning into around the discharge, so you never really of the month, you’ll want those sunny days to a winter pattern. South Texas bass fishermen know what you might catch. warm the water. Once the water gets below should expect to see fishing patterns change “That hot water discharge will be real the low 60s, look for bright sunny days to as the month rolls on. good for hybrid stripers during the winter,” warm rocks and fish those areas – primarily December doesn’t just mean bass fishing Lala explained. “You can catch those fish main lake points. either. Fishermen on South Texas lakes will on spoons, crankbaits or big minnows and “At that point, the fish will pretty much also have ample opportunity to chase catfish, shiners. There will also be some good catfish be in their winter pattern, which for us is crappie, hybrids and white bass. action around the discharge. You can catch deep, mostly vertical fishing. It is almost like COLETO CREEK — Long-time bass pro yellow cats on live shiners. Blues and channels a summer pattern. However, the fish won’t be Dennis Lala says December is when things can be caught on shrimp and Canadian as deep as in the summer. The fishing areas can get real interesting on this South Texas nightcrawlers. A lot of times you’ll see guys and techniques will be roughly the same, power plant lake. set a couple rods out the back of the boat on but where they might have been at 35 feet in “Fishing has been really good lately,” said bottom for catfish, then fish the front of the summer, they’ll only be at 20-25 feet in the Lala. “We’ve been seeing plenty of fish and boat with crankbaits and spoons for stripers winter. And, as usual, they’ll primarily be on plenty of big fish. That should keep going until they get a bite on one of their catfish main lake and secondary lake points – just a into December. In fact, we should have even rods. That way you can fish for a few different little shallower.” better fishing this month. Since this is a power species at once. CHOKE CANYON — On Choke Canyon, plant lake, things tend to be a little different. “It is not unusual to catch some black bass December means the majority of bass will Our fishing can get really, really good in the around the discharge as well, especially once be moving up into the river, where they will winter because of our warm water discharge. the weather gets cooler. You can really catch remain until spring. When they are found in And, our bass spawn a little earlier than they a lot of different stuff around that discharge, the river during winter, most of the fish will do on other lakes, too. On Coleto Creek, it’s which makes it really fun to fish. It makes for be holding in 10 to 15 feet of water along not unusual for us to see the spawn begin a different kind of trip, but it can be a fun the drops. If it gets especially cold, look for in December. We’ll still have some pretty change from just a regular bass fishing trip.” fish to move into the deeper river channel. good topwater action in December. Again, MEDINA — Jim Gallagher of Jim’s Rebait However, in moderate weather they’ll be because we have warm water temperatures Tackle on Medina Lake says despite a warm holding along the drops, ledges and edges. with our hot water discharge, our fish will stay fall, he expects normal fishing patterns to Fishermen should pay particular attention to shallower – especially closer to the discharge. resume during December. That means fish areas that have standing timber along the old On really warm days, we’ll also get a good bite on Medina will likely be spending most of river bed. The vast majority of fish caught up on spinnerbaits worked over the grass. You their time at depth. the river this month will be taken on Texas-

62 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 rigged plastics and crankbaits. anglers experience to close out the year. Of course, South Texas winter weather WEST TEXAS Temperatures were running almost 10 can vary tremendously, so fishermen need degrees warmer than normal at the start of to be ready for a variety of situations this November. Through December fishing for month. If the temperature remains warm, black bass should be very good. Chartreuse the fish will move shallow along the banks. Bass Hogg spinnerbaits, Grande Bass Rattle Anglers should look for fish to be holding Snakes and craw colored crankbaits have been in areas with muddy bottoms and flooded a staple on this lake through the fall months. brush. Spinnerbaits are good choices for Crappie should settle over deeper brush piles covering large stretches of water when the ready to slip to deeper depths as water temps fish are found shallow. And, once the fish drop to start the New Year. Look for them to move shallow, they will remain there until suspend at 12-15 feet in water 20-25 feet deep. post-spawn so long as the weather and water HUBBARD CREEK — Anglers have temperatures don’t drastically drop (which By TOJ Staff gotten use to their “new lake.” Back in April sometimes happens with a late season, AMISTAD — As of the beginning of 2015 it was over 31 feet low before rains severe winter storm/front). White bass will November “Big Friendly” was holding about started a significant rise that resulted in it also be found up the river during December. eight more feet of water than at the same going about a foot over pool level in June of The yearly white bass run on Choke Cany time one year earlier. Anglers looking to this year. Since the middle of this year the can begin anytime during December or finish 2016 by fishing this popular border lake has stabilized and the fishing greatly January, just depending on weather and impound will find plenty of newly flooded improved. At the start of November Hubbard water conditions. When the fish move into vegetation and water temperatures that are Creeks was less than a foot and a half low. the river, they’ll keep working progressively still on the mild side. Early in the month look Chatterbaits, spoons, Texas rigs and jigs further up river until they reach the shallows. for black bass to bust anything that disturbs are good options for black bass around hard Usually, the first big concentrations of white the surface —topwater lures, buzzbaits and structure. Crappie will relate to vertical bass are found around the Highway 99 Bridge. frogs around vegetation. Lipless crankbaits structure near creek and river channels or Once anglers find schools of fish, they can and spinnerbaits fished along the top of the newly place brush piles. follow them up river over the successive days drop-off are another good option. and weeks. This time of year, the white bass Stripers have returned to the deep waters HIGH PLAINS usually aren’t too picky and can be caught on in front of the dam where they will winter. a wide variety of small jigs, spoons, spinners Big topwater baits for surface feeding fish and downsized lipless crankbaits. as well as slabs and big crankbaits for fish FALCON — Big bass season is just marked on electronics is a good one-two kicking off on Falcon Reservoir. Starting combination. Catfish will be shallow early in December, anglers looking for lunker in the month and start to retreat to deeper largemouth on this border lake should focus depths as water temperatures drop. on main lake and secondary points on the O.H. IVIE — Ten more feet of water than a lower end of the lake. Crankbaits and jumbo year earlier is big news on this former big bass soft-plastics are among the best weapons producer. Ivie has been on the quiet side in when hunting trophy bass on Falcon. Big recent years due to the drought and low water bass fishermen should rig with heavy tackle, levels. However with the addition of 10 feet as there is still plenty of submerged brush in of water lots of flats and vegetation have been By TOJ Staff the lake. And, a good portion of the season’s flooded providing good cover for gamefish ALAN HENRY — In early November biggest fish will be taken from this submerged and bait alike. This should set the stage for a the drop in water temperatures on this west brush or other underwater structure. great spring when the spawn occurs. To close lake was running about three weeks behind Fishermen who are looking to just out 2016 anglers will continue to find black schedule. Until significant cold fronts sweep catch a lot of bass, regardless of size, can bass near deep water drop-offs with even across this region fishing should resemble still find lots of action on the shorelines. deeper water nearby. Water temperatures fall-like than early winter. Unless temperatures drop unexpectedly low, started to slide at the start of November but Texas rigs, jigs, Carolina rigs and lipless fishermen will still be able to draw plenty should be on the warm side of normal as the crankbaits are good options. Crankbaits will of bites while casting spinnerbaits, shallow last month of the year begins. Spinnerbaits still work around points and rocky slide areas cranks, plastics and jigs along the brushy and Rat-L-Traps are good options. Topwaters near deeper water. shorelines throughout the lake. On warm, will also get some attention on warm days. MEREDITH — While this lake remains 60 sunny days, there’s even the possibility of Fish areas of the main lake near the feet low it has come up significantly since its some topwater action in these shallower areas. mouths of creek and river channels. Many low mark of 101 feet low in June 2013. This There will also still be plenty of catfish fish will winter in these and will be the first rise prompted TPWD to begin restocking this and hybrid stripers active during the year’s come spring to make the spawning run up lake with walleye in mid-October. Reports final month. The catfish bite will be good in toward newly flooded flats. of black bass remain rare. No reports of the river and there should be plenty of hybrid BROWNWOOD — Warmer than smallmouth have occurred. Plus bream and stripers down by the dam. normal water temperatures may be what catfish catches have been scarce.

64 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 TACKLE TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways MIDDLE COAST | ROCKPORT Vertical Fishing Strategies for Winter Speckled Trout SALTWater UPPER COAST | SABINE & GALVESTON

BATTISTONI’S GUIDE SERVICE Galveston Bay Complex

Capt. Ryan Battistoni Corporate & Family Trips 832-335-8839 www.fishgalvestonbays.com

UPPER COAST | MATAGORDA

Visit us online! texasoutdoorsjournal.com

MIDDLE COAST | SEADRIFT MIDDLE COAST | PORT ARANSAS

USCG Licensed Captain NATHAN BEABOUT Seadrift & Port O’ Connor Fishing & Hunting Guide 210.452.9680 nmsportsmansadventures.com

MIDDLE COAST | ROCKPORT

66 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 67 TACKLE TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways Winter’s Variety of Freshwater Fish middle coast | port aransas middle coast | corpus christi-north padre island

“Professional Property Management and Sales” Serving North Padre Island since 1988 Luxury Vacation Rentals by Gulf Beachfront or on Canals leading to Upper Laguna Madre & your favorite fishing spot. Many with private boat docks. Book online or call our rental specialist today! 361.949.9050 OFFICE 361.949.9070 FAX 14613 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78418 www.rentalmgmt.com

Be sure to check out LOWER COAST | BAFFIN BAY www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com before your next

LOWER COAST | PORT MANSFIELD

A PLACE FOR ALL SEASONS Relax, we’ll take care of the details!

World Class Fishing

Dove & Waterfowl

Cast & Blast

Inshore & Offshore

MIDDLE COAST | CORPUS CHRISTI-NORTH PADRE ISLAND Private & Corporate Events & Meetings GIVE US A CALL!

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! CALL 713-957-3997 for GUIDES, GEAR & GETAWAY ADS

LOWER COAST | PORT ISABEL & SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

68 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 69 FIELD TIPS & TECHNIQUES | Bill L. Olson & Danno Wise Guides, Gear & Getaways LOUISIANA | LAKE CALCASIEU Deer Season’s Home Stretch HUNTING YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! HUNTING & CAMPING ACCESSORIES CALL 713-957-3997 for GUIDES, GEAR & GETAWAY ADS

Texas Fresh Water EAST TEXAS LAKES | CONROE

SOUTH TEXAS LAKES | MEDINA WATERFOWL HUNTING MISCELLANEOUS

HUNTING & CAMPING ACCESSORIES Stop Getting BUSTED with No Bust Curtains TOTAL CONCEALMENT GREAT VISIBILITY MADE IN THE U.S.A CUSTOMIZABLE & EASY TO INSTALL FOR ANY STATIONARY HUNTING BLIND

BEFORE AFTER

2550 Hodges Road Poolville, TX 76487 MADE IN www.nobustcurtains.com Phone: 832-746-6515 THE USA

70 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 71 Deadline for the January 2017 calendar is November 25, 2016 THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2017, Dove, Late Season, Central Zone, winged Dove Area, 27 counties. Javelina season, South Zone. For 138 counties. For more information For more information consult the Outdoor Calendar more information consult the consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, website, or call (800) 792-1112. or call (800) 792-1112. or call (800) 792-1112. DECEMBER 17 — JANUARY 23, 2017, DECEMER 17 – JANUARY 22, 2017 THROUGH DECEMBER 4, (800) 792-1112. (800) 792-1112. DECEMBER 2, Dove, Late Season, South Zone, Sandhill Crane season, Zone C. (51 Mule Deer general season, Pan- Perryton Chapter Ducks Unlimited 32 counties. For more information counties). Migratory Game Bird handle, 40 counties. For more THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 12, 2017, fundraiser banquet, Perryton. Call consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Stamp & Federal Sandhill Crane information consult the TPWD Light and Dark Geese season, Wilson’s Snipe (Common snipe (806) 228-5945. website, or call (800) 792-1112. Permit Required. For information Outdoor Annual, website, or call East Zone, 123 counties. For more or Jacksnipe) season, Statewide. consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, (800) 792-1112. information consult the TPWD For more information consult the DECEMER 3— JANUARY 1, 2017,, DECEMBER 17 — JANUARY 23, 2017, website, or you can call (800) 792- Outdoor Annual, website, or call TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, Pheasant season, Panhandle 37 Dove, Late Season, Special White- 1112. THROUGH DECEMBER 31, (800) 792-1112. or call (800) 792-1112. counties. For more information Mule Deer general season, consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Trans-Pecos, 19 counties. For more THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2017, website, or call (800) 792-1112. information consult the TPWD “Dusky” Duck season, High Plains Rio Grande Turkey fall season, Outdoor Annual, website, or call Mallard Management Unit (92 Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg, Willacy DECEMBER 9, (800) 792-1112. counties). For more information counties. For more information Stephen F Austin Waterfowler consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Chapter Ducks Unlimited fund- THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2017, website, or call (800) 792-1112. website, or call (800) 792-1112. raiser banquet, Nacogdoches. Call Whitetail Deer general season, (936) 483-0572. North Texas, 226 counties. For more THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2017, information consult the TPWD Out- Sandhill Crane season, Zone B. Squirrel Season, 51 East Texas coun- DECEMER 10 – JANUARY 29, 2017 door Annual, website, or call (800) 63 counties. For more information ties. For more information consult Duck regular season, second split, 792-1112. consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, the TPWD Outdoor Annual, web- South Zone, (54 counties). For more website, or call (800) 792-1112. site, or call (800) 792-1112. information consult the TPWD Out- THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2017, door Annual, website, or call (800) Rio Grande Turkey fall season, THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2017, 792-1112. North Texas, 123 counties. For more High Plains Mallard Management Quail season, Statewide. For more information consult the TPWD Out- Unit: Regular duck season. Second information consult the TPWD DECEMER 10 – JANUARY 29, 2017 door Annual, website, or call (800) Split. For more information refer Outdoor Annual, website, or call “Dusky Duck season, second split. 792-1112. to TPWD Outdoor Annual, or call (800) 792-1112. South Zone. 54 counties. For more (800) 792-1112. information consult the TPWD THROUGH JANUARY 15, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2017, Outdoor Annual, website, or call Rio Grande Turkey fall season, THROUGH JANUARY 29, 2017, Chacalaca season, four Rio Grande (800) 792-1112. South Texas, 26 counties. For more Sandhill Crane season, Zone A. Valley counties. For more informa- information consult the TPWD 103 counties. For more information tion consult the TPWD Outdoor DECEMER 3 – JANUARY 29, 2017 Outdoor Annual, website, or call consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Annual, website, or call (800) 792- Duck regular season, second split, (800) 792-1112. website, or call (800) 792-1112. 1112. North Zone (139 counties). 139 counties. For more information THROUGH JANUARY 15, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 5, 2017, THROUGH FEBRUARY 26, 2017, consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Whitetail Deer general season, Light and Dark Geese season, Javelina season, North Zone. For website, or call (800) 792-1112. South Texas, 30 counties. For more West Zone, 151 counties. For more more information consult the information consult the TPWD information consult the TPWD TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, DECEMER 3 – JANUARY 29, 2017 Outdoor Annual, website, or call Outdoor Annual, website, or call or call (800) 792-1112. “Dusky Duck season, second split. North Zone. 139 counties. For more information consult the TPWD Out- door Annual, website, or call (800) Mail your Outdoor Calendar items to: 792-1112.

DECEMBER 17 — JANUARY 1, 2017, 1706 W. Sam Houston Pkwy North Dove, Late Season, North Zone, Houston TX 77043 105 counties. For more information consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, Fax: 713.957.3996 website, or call (800) 792-1112. Email: [email protected] DECEMBER 17 — JANUARY 8, 2017,

72 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016 december 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 73 Tide Tables Fishing & Hunting Times

US TIME ZONES DECEMBER 2016 PACIFIC MOUNTAIN CENTRAL EASTERN < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT H2:19A 1.3 H2:24A 1.2 L12:01A 1.1 L10:39A -0.2 L11:13A -0.2 H2:27A 1.2 H6:59P 1.4 H7:45P 1.4 L11:50A -0.1 L11:17P 1.1 H8:34P 1.3 1 2 3 L12:30P -0.1 L1:16P 0.0 L2:09P 0.2 L6:04A 0.7 L5:49A 0.5 L6:16A 0.2 L6:53A -0.1 H9:20P 1.3 H10:00P 1.3 H10:32P 1.2 H9:08A 0.8 H11:29A 0.9 H1:03P 1.0 H2:15P 1.2 L3:14P 0.4 L4:31P 0.5 L5:55P 0.7 L7:13P 0.8 H10:59P 1.2 H11:23P 1.1 H11:47P 1.1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 H12:13A 1.2 H12:43A 1.2 H1:18A 1.2 H1:58A 1.3 H2:41A 1.2 H3:27A 1.2 L12:58A 1.0 L7:34A -0.3 L8:19A -0.6 L9:05A -0.7 L9:53A -0.8 L10:42A -0.7 L11:32A -0.6 H4:17A 1.1 H3:17P 1.4 H4:13P 1.5 H5:06P 1.5 H5:58P 1.5 H6:51P 1.4 H7:43P 1.3 L12:23P -0.4 L8:19P 1.0 L9:15P 1.0 L10:05P 1.1 L10:55P 1.1 L11:49P 1.1 H8:33P 1.2 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 L2:40A 0.8 L4:21A 0.7 L5:21A 0.5 L6:03A 0.3 L6:37A 0.1 L7:06A 0.0 L7:33A -0.2 H5:20A 0.9 H6:58A 0.8 H9:05A 0.7 H11:12A 0.7 H1:03P 0.7 H2:21P 0.9 H3:13P 0.9 L1:16P -0.2 L2:12P 0.0 L3:17P 0.2 L4:39P 0.4 L6:08P 0.6 L7:22P 0.7 L8:18P 0.8 H9:20P 1.1 H10:01P 1.1 H10:35P 1.0 H11:02P 0.9 H11:25P 0.9 H11:45P 0.9 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 H12:05A 0.9 H12:25A 0.9 H12:48A 0.9 H1:13A 1.0 H1:38A 1.0 H2:02A 1.0 H2:28A 0.9 L7:57A -0.3 L8:23A -0.4 L8:49A -0.5 L9:18A -0.5 L9:48A -0.6 L10:20A -0.6 L10:54A -0.5 H3:51P 1.0 H4:23P 1.0 H4:54P 1.1 H5:26P 1.1 H6:00P 1.1 H6:36P 1.0 H7:12P 1.0 120° 115° 110° 105° 100° 95° 90° 85° 80° 75° L8:55P 0.8 L9:17P 0.8 L9:30P 0.9 L9:48P 0.9 L10:14P 0.9 L10:49P 0.8 L11:33P 0.8 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 DECEMBER 2016

JANUARY 2017 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT H2:43A 0.9 L12:24A 0.7 L1:36A 0.6 L2:59A 0.5 L4:04A 0.3 L4:55A 0.0 L5:43A -0.3 L11:32A -0.5 H3:18A 0.8 H4:17A 0.7 H6:56A 0.6 H9:44A 0.5 H11:47A 0.6 H1:19P 0.8 H7:58P 1.0 L12:11P -0.4 L12:54P -0.2 L1:43P 0.0 L2:43P 0.2 L4:02P 0.4 L5:42P 0.6 H8:33P 0.9 H9:04P 0.9 H9:30P 0.8 H9:54P 0.8 H10:19P 0.8 H10:47P 0.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 L6:31A -0.5 L7:19A -0.8 H12:04A 0.9 H12:52A 1.0 H1:44A 1.0 H2:37A 1.1 H3:31A 0.9 H2:28P 1.0 H3:25P 1.1 L8:07A -0.9 L8:56A -1.0 L9:44A -1.0 L10:32A -0.9 L11:19A -0.7 L7:15P 0.8 L8:22P 0.8 H4:15P 1.2 H5:02P 1.2 H5:47P 1.1 H6:31P 1.1 H7:12P 1.0 H11:22P 0.9 L9:12P 0.9 L9:54P 0.9 L10:35P 0.8 L11:22P 0.7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Times are for Galveston, Galveston Channel

TIME DIFFERENCES High Low Calcasieu Pass, Louisiana -2:14 -1:24 Sabine Pass Lighthouse -1:46 -1:31 Sabine Pass Jetty -1:26 -1:31 Sabine Pass -1:00 -1:15 JANUARY 2017 Mesquite Point, Sabine Pass -0:04 -0:25 Galveston Bay ent. south jetty -0:39 -1:05 Port Bolivar +0:14 -0:06 Galveston Bay Texas City, Turning Basin +0:33 +0:41 Eagle Point (1) +3:54 +4:15 Clear Lake(1) +6:05 +6:40 Morgan Point (1) +10:21 +5:19 Round Pt.,Trinity Bay (1) +10:39 +5:15 Point Barrow, Trinity Bay +5:48 +4:43 Gilchrist, East Bay +3:16 +4:18 Fish, game and all wildlife move in search of food in cycles relative to the moon’s location to the earth. Jamaica Beach, West Bay +2:38 +3:31 The time spans listed above are the prime times to start each day at and along each time zone meridian Alligator Point, West Bay +2:39 +2:33 of longitude 75 degrees (Eastern) 90 degrees (Central) 105 degrees (Mountain) and 120 degrees (Pacific) during Standard time and Daylight Saving during the time it is in effect. To determine the feeding cycle Christmas Point, Christmas Bay +2:32 +2:31 time for best fishing and hunting in the area you plan to fish or hunt advance the sum of 4 minutes for Galveston Pleasure Pier -1:06 -1:06 each degree west and back up 4 minutes for each degree east. The next prime feeding cycle (not listed on the calendar) will be approximately twelve and one-half hours later. There are minor periods that occur San Luis Pass -0:09 -0:09 between the prime or major periods. The minor periods are typically fair periods and last only about half Freeport Harbor -0:44 -1:02 as long as the prime periods.

Pass Cavallo 0:00 -1:20 Feeding Times by Dan Barnett have been proven by analysis of 124 – 3 day bass tournaments between Aransas Pass -0:03 -1:31 1967 through 1983 to be reliable and accurate in predicting wildlife feeding activity. The Feeding Times are not a cure-all. Weather and other environmental conditions affect wildlife feeding activity. Annual vest Padre Island (South End) -0:24 -1:45 pocket books, which show all the major and minor periods, can be ordered by sending a check or money Port Isabel +1:02 -0:42 order for $19.95 per book. For S&H, please add $4.95 to an order of 1 to 4 books. Make check or money Tidal adjustments are not predictable for Port O’Connor, Matagorda Bay; Port order payable to: Feeding Times. Send to: Feeding Times, P.O. Box 2240, Covington, GA 30015. After Oct. Lavaca, Matagorda Bay; and Riviera Beach, Baffin Bay since they are driven by wind 1, please indicate book year. For questions or comments, you can call 404-373-7151. and weather. — NOAA Over 60 Years in Print Feeding Times by Dan Barnett 17 Years Test Proven

74 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal december 2016