9 ANGLER^ OFFICIAL STATE NOVEMBER, 1937 PUBLICATION * AN G LE R* Vol. 6—No. 11

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PUBLISHED MONTHLY COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

by the BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF FISH ^_ COMMISSIONERS §§§ * * * CHARLES A. FRENCH Ten cents a copy — 50 cents a year Commissioner of Fisheries MEMBERS OF BOARD

111 CHARLES A. FRENCH, Chairman Ellwood City ALEX P. SWEIGART, Editor MILTON L. PEEK South Office Bid K.> Harrisburg, Pa. HARRY E. WEBER Philipsburg SAMUEL J. TRUSCOTT Dalton FRANK J. PENTRACK Johnstown NOTE Subscriptions to the PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER EDGAR W. NICHOLSON should be addressed to the Editor. Submit fee either Philadelphia by check or money order payable to the Common­ KENNETH A. REID wealth of Pennsylvania. Stamps not acceptable. Connellsville Individuals sending cash do so at their own risk. FRED McKEAN New Kensington H. R. STACKHOUSE Secretary to Board PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER welcomes contribu­ tions and photos of catches from its readers. Proper credit will be given to contributors. All contributions returned if accompanied by first C. R. BULLER class postage. Chief Fish Culturist, Bellefonte

n^— —qm IMPORTANT—The Editor should be notified immediately of change in subscriber's address Please give both old and new addresses Permission to reprint will be granted provided proper credit notice is given A 0<^ m \

Vol. 6 No. 11 ^ANGLER/ NOVEMBER, 1937 EDITORIAL

MORE GAME FISH NEED MORE FOOD

OUR Fish Commission, through its hatcheries, has Here, then, is a condition which must be remedied Ythis year attained a new high in production of small- if we are to enjoy the kind of fishing we hope to mouthed and largemouthed bass. We have been able, achieve under the present program of your Fish Com­ since virtual completion of the new bass farm on Spring mission. Through its program of balanced stocking, the Creek in Centre county, to distribute to suitable Board has endeavored to hold up the food supply in waters one of the finest crops of young bass of both most waters. We have planted minnows, panfishes and species ever developed at the hatcheries operated food fishes, the young of the latter species also fur­ through your License Money. Other species of warm nishing some much needed food for game fishes. It is water game fishes, the wall-eyed pike in particular, necessary also for our fishermen to face the facts and have been stocked heavily. If stocking with game fish do what they can to preserve, to as great a degree as alone could solve the problem of better fishing on our possible, the forage now available in our warmer warmer waters, there would be small cause for concern waters. We simply must recognize the damage now be­ as to the future of their sport by our great army of ing wrought on our bass streams by raking wantonly fishermen. Certainly this year's production record of over riffles for helgramites, and by indiscriminate voracious species of fish life leaves little to be desired scooping of minnows and destruction of thousands too from that angle. And yet, we can stock bass and wall­ small for average live bait fishing purposes. eyed pike far more intensively than has been ever It is also essential that our live bait fishermen take known in the history of fish conservation in Pennsyl­ only enough minnows, stone catfish, crawfish or hel­ vania, natural reproduction by fish already in lakes and gramites to serve for a day's fishing. One dozen streams can increase vastly the supply of young game lively minnows or other bait are far more effective for fish present in our waters—but—poor fishing must still a day's sport than three times that number weakened be inevitable unless we take into consideration the vital through crowding in a bait bucket. necessity of a good supply of natural forage for car­ Conservation of food for game fish is just as impor­ nivorous species. In other words, the crux of better tant as conservation of the game species themselves. fishing for bass and wall-eyed pike rests with the food These two factors are linked inseparably. Show me supply available for these species. the farmer who would turn loose a herd of cattle to graze in a plowed field and expect them to live; yet There is little reason to doubt the disastrous effect not dissimilar forage conditions for game fish exist in of the 1936 flood on the food supply in many of our some waters today. larger and most popular bass waters. While the vital More food for game fish must mean better fishing. growth of vegetation is once more reestablishing itself Let's do our part to improve food conditions in our in some sections of these waters, the loss of food and bass waters. Every effort by the individual fisherman cover which occurred when raging torrents of water must bring good dividends in better sport. scoured the beds of our streams will require years of mending. The condition of many bass taken by our C. A. FRENCH fishermen during the present season has told a mute Commissioner of Fisheries story concerning this crippled food supply. 2 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER JUNIOR FISHERMEN By BOB RUNK

row. There was a time when the Huckleberry Finn type, the farm or small town boy, with his hickory branch rod and cotton string line was the only youthful fisherman on the streams. In this age, however, the family automobile has opened the field to the city lad as well. Now urban and rural youth alike flocks to the Sport. During the past summer we conducted a series of hikes for Y. M. C. A. boys' clubs. On two of these hikes we touched points where the young­ sters could do some fishing. This was an­ nounced prior to the hikes and on both oc­ casions all the lads appeared equipped with tackle of every description. In our boys' camp we found the same prevailing enthu­ siasm. Counselors were continually being drafted as impromptu guides to conduct fishing groups during the free recreational periods. In one camp period a fishing club was organized for the purpose of studying the various species and methods for taking them by rod and line, the "laboratory" be­ ing Clark's Creek, which yielded sunfish, fallfish and pickerel. The results in this club and our city group have convinced us that the average boy will absorb all that one can give him concerning fish and meth­ ods of angling. That there is much to be done in this line PENNSYLVANIA fisherman, recent­ of education is clearly proved by the fact that in a group of twenty-five boys, aged they listened to articles describing the ly returned from a fishing excursion, drama of underwater life, stories of the waAs displaying a sizeable bass to a friend 9-13 years, several of them had fished for a number of years in company with their continuous struggle for existence that goes when two boys ran up to view the catch. on beneath the surface. The description of After a careful scrutiny of the prize with fathers, not one was able to identify from natural color pictures in the new booklet a bass guarding its nest and then eating exclamations of awe at the size of the fish the fry, the picture of a watersnake swal­ they summed up their approval as they "Common Fishes of Pennsylvania" any fish other than the bream or bluegill, the sucker lowing a bass whose girth was far greater strolled away by sighing wistfully, "Gee, I than his own, the description of young pick­ wish we could catch a carp that big!" and the catfish. Of the Fish Laws regulat­ ing size, day's catch, and season they were erel forming chains in their voracious at­ Those two lads are representative of the likewise blissfully ignorant. Openmouthed, tempt to swallow each other—these were thousands of boys who like to fish and do revelations to evoke expressions of wonder. fish on Pennsylvania's streams and ponds. Educators tell us that two of the most From the days when spring fever and its necessary prerequisites in teaching are in­ resulting epidemic of "playing hooky" terest and motivation. It should be a rela­ wreak havoc upon school attendance rec­ tively simple task then for the adult sports­ ords until the streams are covered with man to instruct his youthful counterpart in rafts of floating leaves and ice rims the the ways of sportsmanlike fishing. The in­ shores they are eagerly and constantly terest of the pupil needs little stimulation. questing for fish—all fish and any fish. It A few simple facts, either in picture or matters little to the average youthful angler story, about fishlife are sufficient to set him whether the fish he catches be bass or suck­ well on the road to learning. As to moti­ er, trout or carp, large or small, in season vation—well, show us the small boy who or out of season. It is his prized catch and would not like to catch a "big one." He is must be displayed on his stringer. Almost self motivated, and if you can slip in a any angler can tell of numerous occasions few hints that let him know that most good when his sporting nature has writhed in fishermen are good fish conservationists as torture at the sight of little Jimmie from well you will be sure to garner a few gold the family next door coming home with a stars behind your name on that celestial beaming face and a string of undersized record of all fishermen which old St. Izaak bass, badly mutilated and caught out of sea­ Walton must keep. son. And if this is not enough, consider the plight of the fish warden who faces the There are many channels through which quandary of either neglecting his duty or this system of education can work and is arresting a lad who has committed an of­ working. Izaak Walton, himself, suggested fense because he has never been taught how the oldest and probably the best method to fish or what NOT to keep. when his Piscator initiated the Venator (huntsman) into the Art by personally dem­ Yes, the Young America of today is fish­ onstrating how to angle for each specie of ing conscious, and the tragedy of it is that fish and giving a lecture on its life and the older fishermen are just beginning to habits to while away the time between realize the effects it is having on the fu­ strikes. This personal contact method gives ture of the sport and the lives of these lads the older angler a great deal of satisfaction who must become the sportsmen of tomor­ as he watches his son or young friend de- PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER :i

systems sponsoring extra-curricular activi­ ties it might be practicable to organize jun­ velop into a real sportsman. One Central ior sportsmen's leagues in the schools. Pennsylvanian who would rather fish than Schoolmen would likewise welcome all the eat made this jocular remark when his son films they could get depicting fish lore and was born: "If he doesn't become a fisherman fish conservation—and, incidentally, visual I'll disown him!" Jesting, of course, but be­ learning by motion pictures is here to stay hind the jest is reflected the sincere desire in the field of education. We should not of every parent to see his boy take up the overlook other institutions which likewise Sport. claim a great part of the modern boy's time, such as the Boy Scouts, the Y. M. C. A., Beyond the influence of such personal playground groups,- and community boys' contact, however, is the great bulk of our clubs. They would eagerly welcome any boys, and the real problem lies in dealing agency which could open new channels of with this majority. The work has already experience to enrich the leisure time of begun on the part of far-seeing sportsmen's their youth. organizations and civic enterprises. Glancing through the pages of the Pennsylvania An­ Thus far we have been discussing the gler one sees unmistakable evidence of a matter chiefly from the self interested point growing movement. The projects at Allen- of view with an eye to guaranteeing the town and Philadelphia, where stocked ponds future of angling. But what about its ef­ are maintained for children's fishing under fect as a service project to building finer conditions that foster the development of character in boys? It is an indisputable fish conservation; the utilization of boys for fact that a wholesome outdoor sport in close the carrying on of campaigns against fish contact with Nature breeds a rugged, self predators; boy-night programs sponsored reliant type of man. Fishing is a tonic for by Sportsmen's organizations — these are most men — a release from the cares of unmistakable evidences that an attempt is routine existence. Why should it not act in being made to solve problems fostering the the same capacity to the youngster who'Ts proper attitude on the part of these lads. equally encompassed by stressing psycho­ There is, however, ample room for the logical problems that loom just as large as extension of this "missionary" work. For in­ those of his elders? One fact is certain-: stance, the schoolboy might be contacted by There are far greater dividends in building building street gamins and gangsters who the media of either speakers, exhibits or mo­ a race of hardy sportsmen, who love the have never known anything better than the tion pictures. With most progressive school land because they are close to it, than in crime school of unsupervised idleness. TAKES NICE BASS IN contest in Meadville and will no doubt win commercial fishermen show a decline in pro­ the prize. Last year the prize was a $25 duction of almost 3 million pounds under LOYALSOCK rod and reel. Mr. Cooper does a lot of fish­ that of 1935. The drop in the total take of George Merrick, of Williamsport, while ing and hunting and this is one of his best commercial species in 1936 is not particu­ fishing in Loyalsock Creek near Hillsgrove, trophies. larly significant of a depletion of the sup­ caught a bass measuring 15% inches. Mer­ ply, as on previous occasions tabulations of rick was accompanied by Clayton Bird, also LAKE MICHIGAN FISH IN yearly productions have fluctuated greatly. of Williamsport, and they also landed six A drop of almost 11,000,000 pounds was other fish ranging in size from 10 to 12 RAPID DECLINE The commercial fisheries operated in the noted in one year, and the following year inches. Michigan waters of the Great Lakes suf­ the production rose to a point considerably CONNEAUT SMALLMOUTH fered a sharp decline in production during above normal. Alton L. Cooper, of Harmonsburg, caught 1936 according to figures recently compiled Statistics show that the all time peak a small mouthed black bass in Conneaut and released by the fisheries division of the production of commercial fish from the Lake, that weighed 4% pounds. The fish Michigan Conservation Department. The Michigan waters of the Great Lakes still was entered in the Baldwin & Welcomer figures taken from the monthly reports of stands at 32,500,000 pounds, taken in 1927. 1 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

A Typical Susquehanna Salamander Photo by Gordon Krieble HELLBENDERS! By A. B. CHAMPLAIN

OW here's a pretty kettle of fish! A was a mere boy) when outlines were in mess of ugly, slimy goblins, more slip­ vogue. At that time hellbenders were often perNy than eels; the n'th degree of aquatic taken on cut bait or worms. Cut lamprey homeliness. Some scientist or other has be­ eels were a tidbit on a hook they seldom stowed upon them the pet name Cryptobran- missed. He recalls that as many as a dozen chus alleganiensis, which is literally Greek specimens were hooked during one running to everyone. Commonly, they are called hell­ of an outline. Also, a single hellbender benders and they are the largest of our would twist a line considerably in its at­ giant salamanders. tempts to escape if not removed quickly. Salamanders are cold-blooded vertebrates After one of these slimy giant salamanders intermediate between the fishes and rep­ had been taken in a particular locality, Mr. tiles. They have the general shape of lizards Kirk found that no fish could be caught but their bodies are moist and naked, with­ there for some time, thus suggesting that out the dry scales that lizards have. They there is a repelling emanation or some other are thus more nearly related to frogs. factor that kept game fish away. The hellbender, our giant of its kind, has a broad, flat head, small eyes and an orifice Hellbenders breed in the more shallow on each side of the neck; in effect its physiog­ areas of river beds. Females lay strings of nomy is stupid and unprepossessing. A thick eggs in masses which are somewhat similar out, forms a string somewhat similar to a fold of skin along each side of the body is in appearance to those of frogs. Each egg string of beads, each about the size of a probably an aid to swimming, while it can -—about the size of a pea and surrounded by a covering of gelatine—is separated, one grape. These eggs hatch during the spring walk about in a clumsy fashion on its well- into tadpoles, resembling those of frogs. developed four legs. A tail almost as long as from the other, by a constricted neck of this the body completes the ensemble and a gelatinous matter. The whole mass, if drawn The tadpoles inhabit the shallow shore wa- length of two feet is often attained by ex­ amples of this creature. The general color scheme is greenish - black or slate color, varying to brown, which nicely matches the river bottoms and mud in which they re­ side. No matter how shy and slow they may be, hellbenders prefer fresh food and con­ sume great numbers of crayfish, which con­ stitutes their main diet. Worms, insects and other aquatic creatures are eaten and fish have been found in their stomachs. How­ ever, fish are generally too fast and smart to fall a prey to hellbenders, so the latter may be considered only as special delicacies. Many persons fear the hellbender but it is quite harmless. If you accidentally get one on the line and pull it in, there is no need to jump out the other side of the boat. These curious salamanders are often caught on hook and line by persons using live bait. H. B. Kirk tells of the old days (when he Salamander Eggs PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 5 ters and feed and grow up in a manner similar to that of their frog cousins. Hellbenders are found quite commonly in the Susquehanna River; many records from Harrisburg and vicinity indicate a favorite breeding station. Other states can also boast of this interesting denizen of waters. We find records of the species and its va­ rieties from most of the tributaries of the Mississippi River, streams of Louisiana, North Carolina, and in Indiana, Ohio and New Jersey. It might be fitting at this time to men­ tion the Hellbender Club, an organization developed 'way Dack in the early 1900's. It was proved by this society, whose presi­ dent was a chef and whose members were epicures, that, inside the covering of slimy ugliness the hellbender was the perfect food. The flesh, which is firm and tender, corre­ sponds very closely to that of frog meat. The ancient recipe reads that, after clean­ ing and removing the skin—similar in man­ ner to that of dressing an eel—and coating the meat with batter and crumbs and frying it in butter, there is a tasty dish "fit for a king." So, if you have a chance to try it, by all means do not refuse your portion. Last—but important—remains the fact that we know very little about this interest­ ing inhabitant of our waters. Accurate in­ formation is requested on the life history and habits of the hellbender. Take notes, measurements and stomach records when you get the opportunity. Write past obser­ vations on the one you caught. The Fish Commission would be pleased to have such information for its reference files. It might be well to mention the fact that there are other species of water-living sala­ manders. The one which might be mistaken for the hellbender, and second largest in Dissecting a Salamander Pennsylvania, is the water dog, or mud pup­ py (Necturus). This latter is easily distin­ place. Me now, I be sorter used ter this, guished from the hellbender; it is smaller so I pertends not ter hear an' goes ter the in size, it is more or less spotted and it is run ter ketch me some nice chubs. It was provided with large, bushy tufts of external one o' them there cloudy mornins, and' I gills. It is recorded from the Eastern United States, chiefly North and West of the Alle- figgered jest right fer pike fishin'. ghenies, and is abundant in the Great Lakes Well, when I gits ter the crick, I hedn't Region. more'n throwed in with a nice lively chub when a big pike smacks it hard. Now then, 'tain't no use in a feller pullin' right off with these here pike, so I says to myself, CATCHES BIG WALL-EYE I'll just let ye turn thet chub an' swaller it afore I pull. I waits about five minutes, What is believed to have been a record an' there's a choppin' away on the line like fish for all time at dams of the Citizens this fish is workin' the bait around ready ter Water Company in Washington County was down it. Then off he starts, an' I pulls. caught by Ed Bissett, of Washington, Pa. Thet pike hung on like a bulldog till I His catch was a wall-eyed pike, which gits him right ter the bank an' then opens measured 30% inches and weighed eight them duck jaws o' his'n an' out comes the and one-half pounds when weighed recently. bait. Jest ter rub it in, he sinks ter the It tipped scales in The Observer office at bottom, two feet long he was, an' seems eight and one-quarter and eight and three- ter be givin' me a pike laff. eighths pounds, being weighed on two Now thet riles me rite, so the next minnie separate scales. I puts on I hooks thru the back 'stead o' After a prolonged tussle, Bissett finally Dinged ef I ever seed a pike act so or­ thru the mouth. Thet second minnie ain't worked the big fish into the bank. Just as nery as one I ketched recent. I hed been made two wiggles when I drops it over he scrambled toward it, it got loose from huntin' squirrel back o' Ned Turner's corn­ him afore he nails it. Thet time I set the the hook but Bissett and Roy Bissett, who field in the mornin', an' ez I managed ter- hook jest as he hits an' he shore musta was with him, pounced upon it. Others in git me three nice grays, I figgered a good been one supprised pike when I finally lands the Bissett party were Frank Bissett and way ter top off the mornin' ud be ter give him. Guy Gorby. the pike fishin' a try. The missus she jest Ketchin' him was more fun then I hed Owing to the fact that a fee is charged sorter got up on a high horse when I says hed fishin' all season, an' fer a feller thet for fishing in this dam, it is not listed as thet the fishin' orter be good, an' says as likes ter hunt an' fish about equal, I figger a public fishing water by the Fish Com­ how some folks ud be better off ef now thet my bag o' three squirrels an' thet big mission. an' then they done a leetle work round the pike made thet a day ter recallect. a PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER GAME FISH REACTIONS Observations Relative to the Striking Tendencies of Warm Water Species By ALEX P. SWEIGART

EPTEMBER 15 of the present fishing Fish number 2, taken at the next stop­ struck the lure immediately after the cast. Sseason has been jotted down in the fish­ ping place, a long deep flat in the stream, And what a contrast was the fight of this ing notebook as a red letter day. Not that was a 20 inch pickerel. This fish hit near little smallmouth as compared with the pa­ it produced a fish of record proportions; to a bed of ruffled pond weed, hooked tempo­ thetic showings of its largemouthed cousins! the contrary, the best fish taken were of rarily, and then tore loose. A few more casts Upon connecting with the lure, it slashed just nice average size. However, it did af­ to other pockets and then the lure was drawn upstream like a demon, turned and, after ford opportunity to check the reactions to over the spot at which the fish had first breaking water, fought the entire way in. artificial lures of three outstanding species struck. In clear view, the pickerel followed It was amazing that a fish of its size could of game fishes in Pennsylvania waters—the the lure on the retrieve, twisted in its course have exhibited so much fiery energy. smallmouthed bass, the largemouthed bass and this time struck so savagely that it Ten minutes later, another smallmouth and the chain pickerel. The scene was Tus- hooked itself beyond all hope of escape un­ of 13-inch length struck the lure in a small carora Creek in Juniata county; the time less the leader or line had been cut or flat of moderate depth. Unlike the first fish fishing was started 8 A. M. Water condi­ broken. The fight it made was strictly un­ of the day, this bass hit the plug when it tions were slightly murky, apparently just derwater, and after a few sluggish runs, it struck the water, savagely bored down­ the ticket for the little % ounce red and was landed. stream in a splendid run, broke water two white casting lure being used. Of the total In direct contrast with the poor showing times and, altogether, gave a splendid a«- catch, a smallmouth and a pickerel were count of itself. retained. of this pickerel was that of pickerel num­ ber 2, taken about half an hour later. Only The reactions of these fish after hookinu Fish number 1, a smallmouthed bass 15 15 inches in length, this fish struck the served to emphasize difference in tactics re­ inches in length and in prime condition, plug cleanly and an instant later cleared sorted to by individuals of the same species. struck on the third cast of the morning in the water, head shaking, in as fine a jump While there was certainly little difference the lower end of a fairly deep flat, the first as you'd care to see. in the striking and action of the large- stop-off of the day. On the second cast, a The section of the stream from which the mouths taken, the other two species fur­ bass, possibly the same fish, swirled at the second pickerel was taken was mud bottom, nished variations aplenty in these respects:. lure but did not connect. Bait casters re­ and a shoi't time later a ten-inch large- It must be recalled that the fish were taken mark, and it has been observed, that bass mouthed bass struck the plug close to the under identical weather conditions and from frequently strike at the lure immediately sharp shelving mud shoreline. While the the same stream. One lure accounted for the as it hits the water or in the first two or strike was clean, this largemouth made the lot, with the exception of the 15-inch pick­ three feet of the retrieve. This smallmouth poorest fight of the day. After one feeble erel, which was taken on a jointed wobbler. pulled just the reverse in tactics, following run, it came in much like a stick of wood. the lure to within about eight feet of the Two other largemouths of similar propor­ Different Waters—Different Lures? shoreline before connecting. It struck solidly tions were caught in this stretch of water One thing that has been brought out in plain view and the ensuing fight it made during the next half hour. Both followed rather forcibly in bait casting during the was typical of a well-fed fish. It broke wa­ almost identically the tactics of the first. past several seasons relates to the effective­ ter two times and put up a lunging type Then, in rocky shallows about 200 yards ness of certain casting lures in different of underwater battle. upstream, a smallmouth of 10-inch length waters. For instance, it has been observed,

Smallmouthed Bass Struct Viciously in September. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 7 insofar as the pickerel are concerned, that the spoon seems to work to best advantage on certain dams, ponds and natural lakes, the last named in northeastern Pennsylva­ nia. On the other hand, pickerel in at least two streams, Tuscarora Creek and Middle Creek in the central counties, have appar­ ently a decided preference for plugs. Just to try out this last named idea, a spoon was used on the morning of the 15th, a red and white lure with a tantalizing wobble. Al­ though the pickerel that morning were defi­ nitely in a striking mood, the spoon pro­ duced nary a strike. This has also occurred at other times on the Tuscarora. Insofar as smallmouthed bass are con­ cerned, there may be something back of a seeming preference for color in a certain water and then again there may not be. Charles K. Fox has a strong liking for plugs or other small casting lures with yel­ low in them, when it comes to taking small- mouthed bass in the Conodoguinet Creek, Cumberland county, the Conewago Creek, Largemouths Made a Sluggish Showing. York county, and the Susquehanna River in the vicinity of Harrisburg. Casting lures with a perch finish also rate high in this early morning and in the evening until after Many anglers contend that during certain particular section. Stream smallmouths in dusk seems to yield best results during hot phases of the moon successful fishing of ar­ the Juniata in Mifflin and Juniata counties weather, the late autumn fisherman should tificial lures is at low ebb. While there and those in Tuscarora Creek, on the other expect to find his best sport on milder days appears to be considerable backing in ex­ hand, have responded exceptionally well to and at times when the sun is well up. perience of different fishermen for this small lures with a silver and black finish. Strong sunlight on the water on chill au­ tumn days seems to increase the activity of theory during the summer months, fishing As for color, one thing may be said with a in autumn seems to present a different pic­ certain amount of safety in assertion: when game fishes, particularly the bass. Even a fisherman banks on a pet plug, no matter plugging at midday after the coming of one ture. Whether cooling of the water and what its color may be, he usually fishes that or two frosts is a favorite system with generally increased activity on the part of plug for all it's worth. Probably, too, his veteran autumn bait casters. game fish in the fall is responsible for this faith in this particular lure may inspire a It will be found, too, that somewhat dif­ betterment in plug fishing while the moon certain confidence in his casting which may ferent tactics in manipulating the casting is on the increase is a matter for conjec­ be lacking when he tries others. At any rate, lure than those employed during hot weath­ ture. The fact remains that three trips a "pet" is often a fishing panacea to your er will often prove more effective. Instead astream during the week of September 12, average fisherman, and if you don't believe of casting and retrieving fast, it is some­ when the moon phases were supposedly un­ this, ask some bait caster of your acquaint­ times best to bring in the lure more slowly. favorable to success, yielded a total catch While bass are more eager for food and in ance. of 22 pickerel and bass of legal size, four a striking mood at this time, they are ap­ One refinement in bait casting, the use proaching the dormant period, frequently of the number being retained. Apparently, of a leader, has apparently made the bait heavy from feeding and seemingly slower autumn fishing, not only in regard to the casting rod just about the deadliest fish- in striking at the plug or other moving effect of moon phases but fsom other an­ taking device under modern fishing condi­ lure. Sometimes it is wise in deep water to gles, offers a fertile field for study. tions. To the best of our knowledge, Fox let the plug sink well down in the depths At least this much has been established pioneered in this innovation (the knot used and to retrieve slowly. in attaching line to leader served as an il­ insofar as late season angling for game fish lustration in his splendid article "Better As for types of plugs that are most ef­ of the warm waters is concerned: the an­ Plugging," which appeared in the October fective in autumn fishing, a fairly wide as­ gler who puts away his casting outfit on ANGLER) and some of our most skillful sortment may be found effective; that is, of Labor Day is missing the very cream of the casters have taken it up with excellent re­ the smaller lures. In weedy waters the season's sport. sults. On days when the water is clear and writer has a preference for a little % ounce low, a leader of from 10 to 20 feet in length lure, straight running, and retrieved so that (artificial gut, usually 15 pounds test) it follows a course only a foot or so beneath should make an outstanding difference in the surface of the stream. There have been the number of strikes an angler can draw times in autumn fishing, on the other hand, LAKE LE BOEUF to his lure. when sinking plugs with a tantalizing wob-'" ble have yielded strikes galore. These plugs Autumn Tendencies go deep, and reaching down deep with a With the coming of cool autumn nights fairly slow moving lure often may result and a drop in water temperature, bass and in connecting with bass well up in the other game fishes tend to congregate in poundage rating. deeper flats and pools of a stream. Prior to There are times when the bait caster is entering their period of dormancy, which almost convinced that color in a lure is a usually takes place during November in real contributing factor to success in tak­ Pennsylvania, smallmouths and largemouths ing game fish. On the morning of September gorge themselves with food, putting on a 17 the red and white lure that had proved surplus of fat which serves to carry them so effective earlier in the week was worked through the winter. It is during September hard without a strike. Changing to a dif­ In common with other members of the and October, when these feeding sprees are ferent finish of this same model lure, 10 pike family, muskellunge strike readily dur­ frequent, that some of the finest catches of legal bass and pickerel were caught in the ing autumn. One of the outstanding waters big bass are made. Somewhat different rules next three hours, two smallmouths 16 and in the state for these giant game fish is may be followed effectively in bait casting 15 inches in length .respectively, being re­ Lake Le Boeuf, Erie County, shown above. at this time as compared with methods tained. The finish on this other plug was This picturesque little lake is located at found most effective during the warmer green back, merging into blue and silver Waterford and to date this year has yield­ days of summer. While plugging in very scale finish on the sides with the belly white. ed a number of good fish. 8 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

the General Assembly in 1754, that each inhabitant would be obliged to kill a cer­ Conservation in Lehigh County tain number of vermin each year, and that those who destroyed over and above their By CHARLES H. NEHF quota would be liberally paid for their ex­ (Courtesy—Allentown Morning Call) cess while those who fell short would have to pay for their deficiency. F PRACTICALLY all chronicles in at Wind Gap served as the entrance to the In spite of the incessant vermin cam­ American history, let alone state and summer range of the big game in Carbon, paign on squirrels, blackbirds and crows locaOl records, few, if any, give us a con­ Monroe, Pike and Luzerne counties. As the they continued to hold their own even up tinuous reference to the abundant wildlife winter descended and the pasture for the to the present day. Squirrels have, with the which abounded in all parts of America elk and buffalo became more scant they enactment of present day game laws, been before the arrival and early settlement of retraced their course and returned through reclassified and placed on the list of small the white man. A comprehensive picture of the game trail at the Gap into the winter game animals opened in seasons specified the birds and animals, native to the newly range of the southern side of the Blue by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. discovered northern part of the western Mountains. The same is true of the blackbird, but the hemisphere, can only be compiled by stu­ crow, a rather unique but clever bird, has dents of natural history from the travel How Hunters Worked profited by advancing civilization and in­ letters, points of occasional note in detailed stead of being on the decline the exact op­ In their passage, the hunters resorted to posite is true. history, old periodicals, pamphlets, diaries three general means of killing their quarry. of early pioneers, surveyors and military The first, and by far the most conservative, Last of Wolf, Panther campaigners, as well as the exact notes of was stalking. In this method the native, in such famous naturalists as John Jacob Au­ most cases desirous of meat or a pelt or Two large wild animals which within the dubon, John Burroughs and Alexander Wil­ two for hide, would purposely track the last 200 years have been rather profitably son. deer, elk, or buffalo, then shoot it with a exterminated from the commonwealth are In the same trend, the piecing together flintlock rifle. In the second method, prop­ the wolf and eastern mountain lion. That of varied references is necessary to paint erly described as platform hunting, the great damages were made by wolves on the the picture of the hunting and fishing con­ hunters, generally hide hunters, erected chickens and farm stock of the pioneering ditions throughout the entire Lehigh Val­ their platforms in the trees at advantageous farmer little question can be made, since ley from the time of the early white set­ places along the migration routes. Here, as as early as 1746 records in Bucks County tlers in the beginning of 'the eighteenth cen­ the herds of game passed, the gunners reveal the payment of a bounty for 16 tury. All evidence points to an abundant would "snipe" the herd, which on becoming wolves to a Nicholas Depui. This incident supply of game birds and animals which, confused at the loss of a leader would fur­ can be well repeated in numerous historical however, as time went on, were gradually nish a fair target to the skilled accuracy records as they are related in Northampton reduced, some to a point of extinction, of the pioneer. County, of which during this early settling others altogether wiped out, with few age Lehigh was still a part. Accounts show adapting themselves to their new agricul­ that farmers, because of the repeated rav­ tural surroundings. Ring Hunting ages of the wolf, lost their complete roost The third method of killing big game, of chickens in a single night raid. Induced Trail of the Buffalo which because of its highly practical re­ by handsome bounties and continual loss of sults was the most ruthless of the three, their stock, organized drives were made To say that big game, including the buf­ was properly described as ring hunting. upon the wolf so that today we are quite falo, elk, deer and bear, was most abundant Here the early hunters, in groups of from safe in saying that no timber wolf is to be would be no exaggeration since account ten to several score, would make a wide found in a wild state east of the Rocky after account has recurring inferences circle about a grazing herd of game. With Mountains. In the very same manner the which leads to such a conclusion. Strange shouts, firing of guns loaded only with black mountain lion, because of his special liking as it may seem the modern motorist who powder, and making all the noise possible, for young horses, calves and large game, within a few.minutes passes through the the group would close in on the herd and was sought until he, too, like the wolf, was odd gap which nature has devised immedi­ concentrate the confused animals in as erased from the category of eastern wild ately north of Wind Gap, Northampton small an imaginary corral as could be made animals. county, little realizes that this was an old under the circumstances. Continuing their migratory game trail on which thousands closing-in, the gunners would kill the buf­ Wild Cat Unexterminated of buffalo and elk were slaughtered, first falo or elk as they sought to escape from by the Indian and conservative meat hunt­ the rapidly decreasing circle. One thing Smaller than his cousin, the mountain er and later by the ruthless hide-hunter most puzzling in practically all these ring lion, the wild cat, known also as the bay who merely killed the animal for the pelt, hunts is the extremely low list of casual­ lynx, catamount or bobcat, has eluded the leaving the carcass to the buzzards. ties on the part of the hunters who, at trapper and gunner until at the present times, were shooting in the general direc­ time he is considered a part of the moun­ So greedy were these hide hunters that tain landscape. For years there has been one early reference is made to a striking tion of the gunner on the opposite side of the circle. It would naturally have to be a bounty of $15 on the wild cat, and state incident which occurred at Buffalo Springs, records show a gradual decline in the num­ headwaters of Greenawalds Creek, a tribu­ assumed that all participants exercised the greatest degree of caution or this system ber received for claim. Under the newly tary to Waltz Creek in Northampton Coun­ adopted game code which gives the Penn­ ty. Here nature had provided a small flat of hide hunting would never have been so extensively employed. sylvania Game Commission discretionary with an excellent watering place for the powers on the fixing of bounties, the wild­ buffalo, from which the spring received its cat, after October 1, 1937, although still name. Each migrating season in spring and Game Destroyed Crops classed as vermin, will be taken from the fall saw herd after herd use this as an One of the greatest difficulties which the state bounty list. This, as pointed out by oasis before their journey over the moun­ the officials, is to avoid a possible exter­ tains in the spring and their return in the early farmer encountered after the land was cleared was the continual annoyance mination of the few remaining wildcats fall. On one occasion, after a successful in our native woodland. "ring hunt" so* many buffalo were killed of his grain crops by the deer, crow, black­ and their carcasses left to rot that the pio­ bird and squirrel. Specific evidence of this neers within several miles had to leave their is shown by the passage of a law in the Restoration of Deer homes, temporarily, because of the stench early eighteenth century which granted In the history of all game conservation, of decaying carrion. bounties of one shilling and six pence per the deer, bear and beaver in Pennsylvania dozen for the destruction of squirrels, crows are excellent examples of restoration in Concerning a bit more about this migra­ and blackbirds. Squirrels in vast numbers, which not small credit is due to the wise tion route over the Blue Mountains, then according to early records, were especially enactment of early game laws. When the referred to as Kittatinny Mountains from destructive to plantings of Indian maze, or Lehigh Valley was first settled these three, the Indian word meaning "endless," one what we commonly refer to today as corn. It as one can readily see, were most plentiful. finds repeated accounts where this passage was even suggested, through a petition to Hunted for their hide and meat, the deer PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 9 and bear provided food and clothing for the tains, because of their remoteness and un­ the Blue mountains in northwestern Lehigh then frontiersmen while the beaver proved inviting nature, proved one of the last county and eastern Berks county. Your writ­ such an attraction for the fortune hunting strongholds for the native beaver. They, too, er, along with others, has seen parts of Europeans that his pelt was sought rather since the price of the pelts was worth the the flocks on different occasions within the greedily. Hides of the deer and bundles of trouble, gradually yielded to the trapper last eight years. Grouse, considered a del­ beaver skins were the basis of the first trade and late in the nineteenth century were icacy by moderns, were so plentiful in for­ between the colonies and the mother coun­ completely wiped out. mer times that hired hands on farms worked try. Continuously hunted, the deer declined With the enactment of conservation only under an agreement that fresh grouse until late in the nineteenth century few measures, shipments of live beaver from the would not be served more than one or two 'white tails' were to be found anywhere in west were made to Pennsylvania and then meals in the week, depending upon the sec­ Pennsylvania. released in sections where it was thought tion of employment. So great was the fame Since the enactment of the buck law, in little damage could be done. In less than of the grouse country here at the foothills which only the male of the species were no time the new settlers acclimated them­ of the Blue mountains that about the year killed, and the outlawing of dog trailing, selves and began to increase in numbers un­ 1765 one of the governors spent a week at deer have rapidly increased and in some til the year 1935 when the first legal trap­ the Rose Tavern, near Nazareth, owned at places cause considerable property damage ping period was allowed in Pennsylvania on that time by William Edmonds, for his di­ to orchards and farms. Aside from the pas­ the beaver for many a year. rect purpose of shooting the native pheas­ sage of the buck law, there can be no ques­ ants on the neighboring plains. tion that the herd was materially aided by Rabbit Always Abundant Grouse and quail, now fully protected by the excellent growth of second timber which Cottontail rabbits, so well known to the game laws, are still to be found in varying afforded both food and necessary protection small game hunter of today, were very numbers throughout the entire Lehigh Val­ from the native poacher. abundant in the early history of the Lehigh ley. A goodly number of grouse are shot Bear, along with the deer, have respond­ Valley. The first regulations imposed were each year along the base of the Blue moun­ ed to the protection afforded them by the liberal, but as good roads penetrated the tains from the Delaware river westward as present game laws of the state and each countryside and the people of the surround­ well as the larger wooded tracts of neigh­ year the statistics from Harrisburg state ing villages and towns had access to the boring Bucks and Berks counties. Quail, that hundreds of black bear are taken by farming and wooded sections the cotton­ though far less in number than years ago, the sportsmen during the fall hunting sea­ tail decreased. Seasons were shortened, bag are still a common sight to the nature lover son. limits reduced, and cottontail rabbits from and sportsman here in the southeastern Beavers' Pathetic History the central states liberated in order to pro­ part of the state. Severe winters in which Beaver, with a more pathetic history than vide a yearly hunting period during the the ground is completely covered with deep the deer, were hunted and trapped for their month of November for the sportsmen of snow are more ruinous to the native bob- valuable pelts until totally exterminated. the State. white not only because of the scarcity of Numerous border fights between the pio­ Game Birds food but also the easy target he may serve neers and the Delaware Indians were in­ Overlooking the flicker, meadow lark, for roving vermin. duced because the white man was encroach­ robin and many of the larger birds, either ing on the many beaver dams at the foot­ permanent or seasonal migratory visitors, Pollution Harms Fishing hills of the Blue mountains and beyond to which furnished the basis of food for early Equally as pathetic as the depletion of the north. It is quite probable that few settlers, the wild turkey, grouse and bob- game so the fish life of the section has suf­ beaver, if any, were to be found in the wild white quail were the three primary game fered as well. Where formerly the rivers state to the south of the 'endless' mountains birds then, as they are at present. Although and streams were teeming with fish, both after 1800. The great swamps at the source hunted continuously, the shy and rather native and migratory, shameful pollution of the Lehigh river in the Pocono moun­ elusive wild turkey may still be found along (Continued on Page 12)

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Allentown Call-Chronicle Drought struck hard blows at water levels of some Lehigh County streams last year. Here Warden Joel Young, center, his son left, and the late Walter Laskowski, right, rescue fish from the stream bed of Jordan Creek. 7 ^.^fvM v,.-:.*f; •;. • 7v-:--:\&£i:^ •

The Montgomery County Fish, Game and Forestry Association outing. Seated in front row, left to right: © Hon. J. Hansell French, vice presided1 k« Pointer Pups—First, Laddy, owned by Rubenshaw; second, Prince, owned by Casting Events and Dog Show Charles Todd. Pointer Dog—First, Joe, owned by John Weber. Feature Montgomery Meet English Setter Male—First, Dan, owned by William Gordon; second, Rex, owned by ITH many events of interest in the McPherson and Kibblehouse defeated Wal­ J. Gilman Tyson, Jr. Woffing, the Montgomery County Fish, ton and Sellers, 21-19; Weber and Cleaver English Setter Female — First, Bess, Game and Forestry Association members defeated Yeager and Hicks, 21-9; Schultz owned by Charles Hughes; second, Speck, gathered at the Eastern Penitentiary for and Horn defeated Harrington and Schall, owned by Rubenshaw. their annual outing on Saturday, Septem­ 21-12; K. Gordon and Judge Knight de­ Irish Setter Female—First, Sally, owned ber 25, 1937. feated W. R. Gordon and Moyer, 21-14; by William Gordon. The fishermen and the hunters divided E. Clymer and son defeated Heebner and Daschund Female—First, Retchie, owned honors in the two main sporting events of Hooker, 21-6. by Mrs. Gordon Tyson, Jr. the day. The fishermen ran off with the Second round—E. Smith and G. Smith English Springer Spaniel—First, Prince, ball game, 5-1, and the Hunters, led by defeated Brown and Slavin, 21-12; Mc­ owned by Clem Tingley. Lloyd Heebner, bested their rivals in a tug- Pherson and Kibblehouse defeated Witner Cocker Spaniel — First, Westie, owned o-war. and Miller, 21-17; Bertolet and French de­ by Mrs. Eugene Muller. The fly casting event had many entries, feated Horn and Schultz, 21-14; Weber and but every one agreed that Myron Shoemaker, Cleaver defeated Brouse and Royer, 21-20; Trap Shooting Summaries a fish warden from Laceyville copped the Clymer and son drew bye. Class A— honors. Third round—E. Smith and G. Smith Kehoe 25 25 50 In the other events, Jerry Kehoe shot a defeated McPherson and Kibblehouse, 21- Todd 24 25 49 25-25—50 to take the trap shooting event. 17; Cleaver and Weber defeated Bertolet Muller 22 24 46 John Rigg won Class B honors with a 22- and French, 21-16. Kohl 22 23 45 24—46. The Smith brothers, George and Fourth round—Clymer and son defeated Class B— Earl, won the horseshoe pitching contest, Cleaver and Weber; E. Smith and G. Smith Rigg 24 20 44 defeating the team of Clymer and son in drew bye. Ringler 22 22 44 the finals, 21-20. Final round—E. Smith and G. Smith de­ Sailor 20 21 41 J. Hansell French's entries stood out in feated Clymer and son, 21-20. Carrol 20 21 41 the dog show, which was judged by Dr. Class C— Harry Steinbaph. Schultz 19 19 38 Dog Show Results Walker 17 17 34 Beagle Hounds and Pups—First, Pow- Yardage for trophies (21 yards — 25 Horseshoe Pitching Summaries Wow, owned by J. H. French; second, Min- tries): Saylor, 23; Weber, 23; Gelbert, 22; First round—G. Smith and E. Smith de­ key, owned by J. H. French. Ringler, 22; Kohl, 21; Muller, 21; Rigg, 21; feated Hixson and Heebner, 21-15; Witner Beagle Males — First, Delmont Scout, Todd, 21; Knight, 21; Ulmer, 20; Schmetz, and Miller defeated Bullen and Pedrick, owned by J. H. French; second, Perkiomen 19; Cole, 19; Klymer, 18; Gordon, 17; 21-11; Bertolet and French defeated Tower Governor, owned by J. H. French; third, Wood, 16; Isenburg, 16; Judge Knight, 15; and Lane, 21-14; Brown and Slavin de­ Perkiomen Leader, owned by J. H. French. Studley, 15; Fleming, 14; Wood, 13; Zeig- feated Hassinger and Powell, 21-11; Brouse Beagle Females — First, Lucky Music, ler, 13; Walton, 13; Miller, 12; K. Gordon, and Royer defeated Ziegler and Cole, 21-9; owned by J. H. French. 11, McPherson, 9, and Sellers, 7. ation; ® George Bullen, chairman, outing committee; © Judge Harold G. Knight, president; © Charles C. Hughes, vice president.

OHIOANS SCORE AT FRESHWATER SHARKS ADAMS ANGLERS SCORE PITTSBURGH Sharks in the Susquehanna River? Actu­ Jay Bringman, Biglerville, reports catch­ ally! reports the Sunbury Daily Item. ing six bass in Bream's dam on Marsh Pennsylvania's outstanding casting event creek on the first day of bass season. He of the season, the seventh annual Penn­ Game Protector Bruce P. Yeager of reports catching a total of 24 bass, 18 of sylvania State Casting Tourney, was held Northumberland turned over to Prof. N. which he returned to the water. The largest in Carnegie Lake, Highland Park, Pitts­ H. Stewart of Bucknell University two speci­ fish in the half dozen he brought home is mens of the shark family taken from the burgh, on Sunday, September 19. Keen said to have measured 19 inches. It was a placid west branch near the spot where small mouth bass. The other five fish competition between some of the outstand­ Chillisquaque Creek empties into the main measured more than 12 inches each. John ing casters of the country developed. It stream. The specimens were identified as A. Sheffer, Bringman's fishing companion, remained for a group of Ohio anglers to chandrichthynes, a branch of the shark vouches for the accuracy of the statements. walk away with all but one of the cham­ family and were termed by Prof. Stewart James Oyler, Baltimore road, Gettys­ pionships. Thirty-eight anglers entered the "most interesting." He plans research into burg, brought home a large mouth bass tourney, which was sponsored by the Pitts­ the habitat and customs of the fish, par­ that measured 16% inches. It was taken in Marsh creek. He had several other small­ burgh Casting Club. ticularly with regard to whether or not it is commonly found in fresh water. er fish on his string. With a score of 97 points, H. Lowe of John Pitzer, Jr., West Middle street, The two sharks were hooked by Thomas reports having caught a bass measuring East Liverpool, Ohio, took first place in the Lewis and Charles Heinley of Danville, who, 14% inches while fishing near the Gettys­ wet-fly accuracy cast. Ernest Liottea of puzzled over the species of the catch, took burg water company pumping station on Cleveland, national all-round bait and fly- them to the game protector. One of the the first day. casting champion, won the wet-fly distance fish was about 12 inches in length and the- Many fishermen were reported casting on cast with a mark of 120 feet. Pennsylvanian other measured fourteen inches. Both had Conewago waters between Twin Bridges Karl Breitenbach of Pittsburgh prevented a and New Chester, but the most of the fish large, saw-toothed jaws and other aspects taken there were said to be small, with com­ clean sweep of first places by the Buckeye of the shark. A report that three fish of anglers by taking top honors in the % paratively few reaching the nine-inch legal the same species were recently taken by limit. ounce accuracy event with a score of 94 anglers at Lewisburg was not confirmed. points. Robert Deeds of East Liverpool, Ohio, won the % ounce accuracy event The specimens were declared today not to A mighty fine specimen of the wall-eyed pike was taken from Crystal Lake by Ben with a score of 91 points. This contest was be carnivorous and therefore represent no danger to bathers. Letzic of Carbondale, according to a report staged for boys under 16 years old. A simi­ received from Warden Leroy Noll of Pleas­ lar contest for men was won by Dr. R. P. Region anglers report having caught ant Mount, Wayne county. Letzic's catch Merrill of Columbus, Ohio, who had a score larger specimens of the same kind of fish in measured 27 inches in length and tipped of 96 points. First honors in the dry-fly the Bowers Beach and Chesapeake regions the scales at several ounces over 6 pounds. accuracy event went to Mr. R. Crooks of but there was no previous report of their inhabitating fresh water. The theory was Columbus, Ohio, who had a score of 96 Loyalsock Creek in Sullivan and Lycom­ points. The dry-fly distance event was won advanced today that the unique fish may ing counties also provided some big brown by W. Behnen of Columbus, Ohio, who took have traveled up the Susquehanna from the trout catches. Paul Sortman of Williams- the distance east for salmon flies with a Chesapeake during a period of unusually port scored with a 24-inch brownie. No cast of 134% feet. high water. weight was reported for the fish. 12 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER CONSERVATION IN cure fish which were either consumed fresh, sioners, are still excellent trout waters in smoked or salted in various brines. High which the use of nets and traps of former LEHIGH COUNTY dams and industrial pollution have altered times are outlawed. Taking the place of the (Continued from Page 9) the former shad migrations of the pic­ native brook trout, the brown and rainbow, has brought about greater changes in this turesque Lehigh river. That it could not be because they can stand higher water tem­ picture than the early settler himself. With restored is directly answered by the state­ peratures, are gradually invading the no fit place in which to live, the aquatic ment that thousands of shad use the Dela­ streams where the speckled beauty held life of the stream had either to move to ware river each year for the fulfillment of sway. Not until the streams have a more new quarters or die, the latter most often their life cycle of existence. constant flow of water and at lower tem­ being the case. peratures will this change. The Delicious Trout Before the erection of the series of dams Little is said of other fish in the early Still more famous than the river shad along the Lehigh river for, the completion exploring period but one can readily as­ were the 'delicious' trout which the accounts of the canal from Mauch Chunk to Easton, sume that all native species were plenti­ thousands upon thousands of shad and suck­ of the Allen's revealed in early letters. ful. Suckers, catfish, perch, trout, and sun- ers used the river each spring as a course Judge William Allen, aside from his pro­ fish were native to this section. The black to reach their former spawning beds on fessional vocation, was an ardent sports­ bass both large and small mouthed, the the clear gravel bars of the upper Lehigh. man and his country home which we today carp, walleyed pike, the brown trout and the The picture after the dams were completed find in Allen park, Fourth and Walnut rainbow are new-comers to eastern Penn­ showed a gradual drop in the migrating Streets, has always been known as "Trout sylvania. sfiad and each spring less and less would try Hall." It was here that the Aliens, frequent­ to work their way up stream. ly ' accompanied by large parties of their Days of Conservation Most pathetic of all was the beginning friends and acquantances from the city of of anthracite coal mining on a large scale Philadelphia, would spend their time, dur­ Within two centuries the supply of fish when the silt from the washed coal was ing the proper seasons, either at hunting and game of the entire Lehigh Valley has allowed to run into the middle tributaries of changed completely. One fact, of common the Lehigh river. This silt killed the aquatic or fishing. Quite often Governor John Penn, a son-in-law to Judge Allen, was a mem­ knowledge to all, is that the period of ruth­ vegetation on the Stream bed with the re­ less slaughter of wildlife is past. Conserva­ sult that insect life, the basis of food for ber of the group which enjoyed the inviting tion in its greatest form must supplant the growing fish which in turn furnished food sport of trout angling. for larger fish, was practically wiped out. selfish ideals of individuals who measure As to where the parties enjoyed their their hunting and fishing only by the Even though the "coal dirt" did not kill the greatest sport, little can be learned, since fish through suffocation it proved an end to amount of meat they can produce. The great their means of securing food. all the notes on fishing are diversified. Men­ outdoor recreations are passing through a tion however is made of Trout creek, quite transition period from the old to the newer Abundance of Shad likely the Trout creek of Salisbury town­ concepts. It may be rather hard for some ship; the Little Lehigh and the "Devil's or to believe, but the hunting and fishing of Early records are consistent in their ref­ Gunner's hole," at what is now known as erence to the shad which were taken from the future, under wise planning, will no Helfrich's spring to the north of Allen- doubt be managed and controlled as it the Lehigh river at the Moravian settle­ town. ment in Bethlehem and at Northampton, should be. Under such a system there need now Allentown. Stone walls with basket The Little Lehigh and lower Jordan, be little alarm as to the completed exter­ traps into which the fish were simply chased through the sportsmen's organizations and mination of a harmless species which in the was the most successful method used to se­ the Pennsylvania Board of Fish Commis­ past has so often been the case.

Corry hatchery in Erie County. Shown at left a'e hatching troughs; at right, the front entrance to the hatchery. Corry trout are noted for their brilliant coloration. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 13

Question: I have several friends who get very form has apparently the right speed a lot of fun out of fishing for suckers. What and action to put plenty of gyrations into is the best time to fish for these fish, what a light fly rod. The strike usually comes locations are best, and what bait is most with an arrowy rush not unlike that of a popular?—J. D. L. trout, and on more than one accasion, a 12 Answer: Probably, taken as a group, or 14 inch fallfish has fooled us into be­ sucker fishermen outnumber any other class lieving we had a good trout hooked before of anglers in Pennsylvania. When it comes it was brought in. Apparently, however, to real relaxation, it's hard to beat a day this fish is not inclined to be very selective at a good sucker fishing pool in autumn, as to the pattern of the fly it strikes. We winter or early spring. As for tackle for have also taken some large fallfish on plugs. this kind of fishing, the old cane pole is just In the first stages of its fight, it provides as effective as more expensive reel, rod and plenty of action, but we do not believe it to Guy Schultz, Special Warden at Nanticoke, with line. While, during hot weather, the flesh have the staying qualities of a trout of two big Carp from North Branch of Susquehanna of the sucker has a tendency to become equal size. Some real sport may be had soft, cooling of the water in the fall of by dry fly fishermen on warm water streams the year results in its firming up in good in fishing for fallfish. STOCK 16,000 TROUT IN style. Heavy catches may be made at any Question: Is it permissible to troll from LACKAWANNA COUNTY time from November through to May, with a motorboat?—J. K. The Six Springs Hatchery Association the most popular time for sucker fishing Answer: Trolling from a motorboat is distributed 16,000 trout in various regional being in March and early April. In early not permitted in Pennsylvania waters under streams of Lackawanna county on Septem­ spring, these fish congregate in vast num­ an amendment to the Fish Laws. ber 26. bers at points on larger waters where trib­ With Warden Keith Harter of Dalton, as utary streams enter. Prior to their spawn­ Question: What is a good bait for carp? supervisor, the public watched the proceed­ ing run, which occurs usually from late —S. R. D. ings while members of the association col­ March through April, and even on occasion, Answer: Carp fishermen differ as to the lected the trout at its hatchery in Moscow, into early May, the fish feed voraciously. best lure for taking these fish. Some old placed them in cans and transported them Enough lead to carry the bait to the bot­ timers prefer sweet corn above all others. by trucks to designated streams. tom, small hooks and small red worms or Dough bait comprised of molasses and corn The Association is operated in coopera­ other worms of the garden variety provide meal is also rated a good bait, as is the tion with the Federal Bureau of Fisheries the necessary equipment for successful potato diced fairly fine. in Washington and with the Pennsylvania angling for suckers. Question: What happens after a bass or Fish Commission, of which S. J. Truscott Question: I have heard it said that fall- pickerel hits a minnow? Do they take it of Dalton is a member. fish strike a dry fly as readily as do trout down right away?—R. McS. Leon Decker, Secretary of the Associa­ and put up a good fight when hooked. How Answer: Usually when a bass strikes a tion, announced that the paid up member­ do they rank as game fish?—A. L. McP. minnow its holds it momentarily crosswise ship has increased by one-third over the Answer: The fallfish, largest member of between the jaws, then turns it to swallow previous two years. C. C. Demmy is Presi­ the minnow family in Pennsylvania, occa­ headfirst. The same applies for pickerel. dent of the organization. sionally attaining a length of 18 inches, is By swallowing its victim headfirst, the fins rapidly gaining in popularity with fly fish­ lie close to the body, making the act on the The greatest portion of the Pennsylvania ermen. When it comes to striking a dry fly, part of the killer a comparatively simple angler's money spent for licenses is ex­ this fish is a top-notcher. Its graceful, sil- matter. pended in the raising and restocking of fish. FISH WARDENS the Game and Fish Commissioners often Other highlights of the evening as act hand in hand in many moves beneficial brought out in discussion were— HOLD MEETING to the public and that the law enforcing It is a well known fact that good fishing A meeting of the Special Fish Wardens men of each body are always ready to co­ . is decreasing each year, and that it behooves of Lackawanna county was held Wednes­ operate with one another. everybody to observe the present laws and day, September 29, in the Scranton Cham­ Another good thing to remember, stated try for enactment for more stringent laws ber of Commerce with an attendance of Mr. Gilford, is that education is one of the to protect fish life. fifty Special Fish Wardens present. best means of law enforcement known, and Commissioner Truscott brought out the Keith Harter of Dalton, regular Fish that it is much better to teach a person fact that of the vast army of hunters and Warden of Lackawanna county, called the who is breaking a minor law unknowingly fishermen in Pennsylvania, only 15% of meeting to order and introduced the various than to prosecute him. In other words, why them belong to any sportsmen's clubs; why speakers, who were J. Gilford, Regional make a $1000 enemy for a $10 fine? not join up with some good outfit and throw Game Supervisor, F. E. Jenkins, Game Fish and Game belong to the public and your weight towards a good cause! Warden of Lackawanna county, John L. when violations of either code are made Only interested men make good law en­ Neiger, President of Lackawenna county then it is you and I who are being robbed. forcement officers. Federation of Sportsmen, and the Honor­ Mr. Jenkins made it clear that no fed­ Before the end of the present season it able S. J. Truscott, member of the Board eral stamp was required for hunting wood­ has been estimated the issuance of fishing of Fish Commissioners. cock. licenses will exceed the best previous years These men talk and live fish and game Mr. Neiger an ardent fisherman and all- by from 80,000 to 100,000. conservation, and their aim in life is to round sportsman remarked that in Ontario, Pennsylvania has the largest bass hatch­ educate the general public in the methods, Canada, the creel limits are less than in ery in the world located at Spring Creek; aims and results of proper conservation Pennsylvania, despite the fact there are in various sections of the state there are methods. one hundred lakes across the border to our nine other hatcheries with an annual pro­ Mr. Gilford brought out the fact that one. duction exceeding 600,000,000 fish. 14 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

Stream improvement work, particularly on trout streams, has been a feature of the drive for better fishing in Pennsylvania. Above are shown some of the dams erected on State trout waters.

AUGUST STOCKING Owing to an abundance of rainfall dur­ Six Mile Run, White Deer Creek, Mountain ing the summer, trout streams generally Branch, Big Sandy Creek, Lt. Sandy Creek; FEATURES BASS were in ideal condition for stocking, a fact Brown Trout, Penns Creek, Spring Creek; Heavy stocking of Pennsylvania fishing that augurs well for the trout fishermen's Rainbow Trout, Penns Creek, Spring Creek. waters with bass and trout over legal size sport next spring. Clinton County—Brook Trout, Big Fish­ featured the distribution program of the Following were the waters stocked in the ing Creek, Big Run, Baker Run or Backer Fish Commission during August. Included various counties: Run, Antes Creek or Rauch Creek; Rainbow in the stocking that month were 147,810 Allegheny County—Carp, Scott Ponds No. Trout, Big Fishing Creek; Fingerling Brook bass of both species, ranging in size from 2, Panther Hollow Lake. Trout, Hammersley Fork. one to 12 inches, 40,000 brook trout averag­ Beaver County—Carp, Connoquennesing Columbia County—Brown Trout, Fishing- ing 9 inches in length, 28,000 brown trout Creek, Lt. Beaver River. Creek. averaging 9 inches in length, and 15,000 Berks County—Bass, Ontelaunce Lake on Crawford County — Bass, Pymatuning rainbow trout averaging 9 inches. Finger- Maiden Creek. Reservoir. ling brook trout numbered 13,600 and fin­ Blair County—Bass, Williamsburg Dam Cumberland County—Brook Trout, Big gerling brown*trout released totaled 17,750. on Frankstown Br. Juniata River. Springs; Rainbow Trout, Letort Springs, Bradford County—Brook Trout, Schrader Big Springs; Bass, Carlisle Water House A total number of 278,515 fish of the or Schroder Creek; Bass, Sugar Creek. Dam on Conodoguinet Creek. various species were stocked during the Butler County — Carp, Connoquennesing Dauphin County—Bass, Swatara Creek, month. Other species planted were 14,030 Creek. Susquehanna River. carp from 9 to 16 inches in length, 1,750 Carbon County—Brook Trout, Quakake suckers from 2 to 3 inches in length, 500 Creek, Aquashicola Creek; Brown Trout, Elk County—Brook Trout, Medix Run; bullhead catfish averaging 8 inches, 30 adult Pohopoco Creek or Big Creek, Wild Creek. Rainbow Trout, E. Br. Clarion River, W. bluegill sunfish averaging 8 inches in length Centre County — Brook Trout, Penns Clarion Creek; Fingerling Brook Trout, and 45 adult yellow perch, averaging 9 Creek, Spring Creek, Pine Creek, Lt. Fish­ Belle Draft Run, Dent or Dents Run. inches in length. ing Creek, Sinking Creek, Black Bear Run, Erie County—Bass, Presque Isle Bay. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 15

Huntingdon County — Brown Trout, Spruce Creek; Rainbow Trout, Whipple Dam on Laurel Run; Bass, Penn Central Dam on Frankstown Br. Juniata River, Penn Central Dam on Raystown Br. Juniata River. Juniata County-—Bass, Pomeroys Dam on Tuscarora Creek. Lackawanna County—Brown Trout, Le­ high River. Lancaster County—Bass, Holtwood Dam

on Susquehanna River, Safe Harbor Dam ...-•"''• on Susquehanna River, Conowingo Dam on Susquehanna River. Lebanon County—Brown Trout, Evening Br., Gold Mine Run. Lehigh County—Brook Trout, Lt. Lehigh River; Brown Trout, Lt. Lehigh River. Luzerne County—Brook Trout, Mescopeck Creek, Wapwallopen Creek; Brown Trout, Lehigh River; Bass, White Haven Dam on Lehigh River, Harveys Lake. McKean County — Brook Trout, Kinzua Creek, W. Clarion Creek; Fingerling Brook Trout, N. Br. Sugar Run, Linn Brook, Mar­ tin Run, Wilson Run, Mead or Fife Run, Willow Creek, Chappel Fork. Mifflin County — Brook Trout, Kishaco- quillas Creek; Brown Trout, Kishacoquillas or W. Br. Kishacoquillas Creek; Rainbow Trout, Kishacoquillas or W. Br. Kishaco­ quillas Creek. Monroe County—Brook Trout, Big Bush- kill Creek, Buckwa Creek, Tobyhanna Creek, Aquashicola Creek; Brown Trout, Brod- heads Creek, Lehigh River, Tobyhanna Creek; Rainbow Trout, Weir Lake; Bass, Delaware River; Suckers, Delaware River. Montgomery County — Bass, Perkiomen Creek, N. E. Br. Perkiomen or Br. Creek; Suckers, Perkiomen Creek, N. E. Br. Perkio­ men Creek or Br. Creek. Northampton County — Bass, Delaware River; Suckers, Delaware River. Philadelphia County—Catfish, Chamaunix Lake; Sunfish, Chamounix Lake; Yellow Perch, Chamounix Lake; Carp, Chamounix Lake. Pike County — Brown Trout, Shohola Creek; Bass, Lake Wallenpaupack. Potter County — Brook Trout, Genesee Trout Stripping Operations are now underway at Fish Commission hatcheries. Here are employes at River or Luddington Br., Eleven Mile Creek; Beliefonte taking Rainbow Trout (above) preparatory to stripping. Fingerling Brook Trout, S. Wood. Below, taking milt from a Male Rainbow. Schuylkill County — Bass, Sweet Arrow Lake. FISHIN' TALK son in Conneaut Lake during the summer. Some sizeable gar were killed, it has been Snyder County—Bass, Penna. Power & There are plenty of bass fishermen whose Light Co. Dam on Middle Creek. reported. hope it is to land a smallmouth of propor­ * * >K Somerset County — Fingerling Brown tions similar to those of the bass taken by James Lewis of Loyalsockville made a Trout, Whites Creek, Cranberry Glade Run. Harry Fink, Jr., of Jednota, near Highspire, nice catch of smallmouthed bass in the Dauphin county, in the Susquehanna River Susquehanna County — Rainbow Trout, Loyalsock Creek early in the season. The near Highspire. Harry landed a 22-inch 4 largest fish in his catch measured 19 inches Starrucca Creek, Mingo Lake. pound 2 ounce smallmouth that gave him Tioga County-—Brook Trout, Four Mile in length and weighed 2% pounds and two a 20 minute battle before he staged the others each measured 12 inches in length. Run. catch. Two smaller bass, a two-pound cat­ * * * fish, and two eels having a combined weight Washington County—-Carp, Lt. Chartiers Listed with the big brown trout taken Creek. of 7 pounds, completed the creel for the day. The largest bass was taken on a craw­ during the 1937 trout season will be the Wayne County—Fingerling Brown Trout, fish. • 23% inch brown trout taken on Broad- Five Mile Creek, Peet Creek, Sheshawken heads Creek near Stroudsburg by George Creek, Carley Brook, Buttermilk Creek, Bauscher of Allentown. It weighed five Outlet of Keen's Pond. pounds. A fine brook trout was taken on Spearing gar pike, outstanding enemies the same day by Bauscher. It measured Wyoming County - • Brook Trout, Bow- to game fish, was resorted to by four parties 15% inches in length and weighed just one iiians Creek. under the direction of Warden Gerald Mun- ounce short of two pounds. 16 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

"The Diary of an Honest Fisherman" the same fish. Same place too. The old fel­ low said he saw it several times down by Pecks Pond, the "Perch Rock," a place where we used Sunday, Sept. 3. to go to catch perch. Guess I will go over Dear Alex: to Twin Lakes tomorrow and see if I can I arrived here early this morning. Peck's find the catfish with the white whisker. Lake is a beautiful place. Well I remem­ ber when first I visited this spot thirty- WILDWOOD BASS five years ago. No houses within ten miles; a narrow wheel track for a road; no lake, Wildwood Lake, located virtually in the only a stream flowing between swamps; but suburbs of Harrisburg, has been providing fine recreation and sport for anglers of such pickerel fishing. the Capitol City this year. Not only have Went down to the lake to watch the white heavy catches of catfish, sunfish and carp herons, five of them, walking about like been made in this body of water, but bait geese on stilts. Met an old man who told casters and live bait fishermen have had me that fifty years ago when he first fished fair success in taking largemouthed bass, Peck's Lake, the pickerel were so thick that following stocking of the lake with that when the cows, standing in the water to species by the Fish Commission. cool themselves, switched their tails to drive Bait casting for the big fellows in the the deer flies away, the pickerel, known for lake was given impetus early in the season their disposition to strike at anything that when Charley Fox scored a fine catch of moves in the water, would seize the tip seven largemouths in less than an hour on of the cow's tails and be thrown out on one of his pet casting lures. the bank, there to be picked up by the The live bait fishermen have also had watching fishermen. I think this old fel­ their inning, some nice largemouths being low was trying to kid me. He evidently taken on minnows. Most recent of the live thought I was just a city fellow. bait catches was that made by J. M. Zeig- Met another fellow down by the Lake ler of Harrisburg on a minnow. He landed who wanted me to go with him to look one hefty bigmouthed bass, 18% inches in Clarence Patterson, New Castle, with 16 pound 2 up two big snapping turtles which he says length and weighing 4% pounds, according ounce Muskie he caught in Allegheny River. With to Warden Frank Sanda of Steelton. him are P. H. Johnson, Centre County; J. K. John­ he saw Saturday, over in the swamp be­ son, Centre County, and Wayne Stitinger, hind the big island, "big as washtubs," he Members of the Harrisburg Hunters and New Castle. said. Got into the boat and went over to Anglers Association, who have adopted the the island. Saw a big snake out on a marsh lake as one of their pet projects, have been flat, threshing about. Got near to him and gratified by the fishing enjoyed there this BRANCH MURKY BUT saw that he had swallowed a big catfish year. and one horn was poked out through the ANGLERS LAND BASS snake's neck. The snake could not swallow Some nice catches of bass were made at the fish and the fish could not get rid of COCALICO BASS Echo Beach during the first week of the •the snake. Funny situation. Caught the pair. Menno G. Brubaker of Denver, caught season despite the poor river conditions on Left the fish go. a bass 16 inches in length, weighing a the North Branch. Could not find the big turtle, but prom­ trifle over two pounds. It was caught in the On Wednesday evening, Paul McCracken ised to go with the man Monday or Tues­ Cocalico Creek. took six black bass on flies and on Tuesday day and try to catch a big one. evening he got three; Gene McCracken took On the way back, saw another big snake two black bass on flies Tuesday evening. swallowing a sunfish. We caught the snake Mr. Darlby, of Williamsport, fishing and killed it and cut it open and let the Thursday and Friday, got eight black bass sunfish swim away. and 10 rock bass; Hugh Litzelman got one Saw a blue heron wading in the water 23-inch wall-eyed pike and a number of along the shore—big fellow—about six feet good-sized black bass. Mr. Drum of Cata- across the wings. The heron walked along, wissa landed a 20-inch yellow bass while watching until he saw a small fish. Then Myron Kilmer got six bass—four yellow he darted his head down like a snake strik­ and two black weighing two pounds. ing and came up with a fish which he snapped up in the air and caught head first as it came down. Am careful to tell the exact truth about HUNTINGDON ANGLERS everything I see. Met an old lady at one of the houses when I got back to shore. MAKE NICE CATCHES Lady told me that when she was young With the opening of the bass season in and lived over near High Knob, the snakes Pennsylvania came the reports of three fine were so thick that they lived in the stone catches by Huntingdon fishermen. Clyde walls all around the place. Her mother used Dean brought a fine specimen to town on to put out milk in a pan every evening the first day. It was a wall-eyed pike or and the rattlesnakes would come out and Susquehanna salmon measuring 29% inches drink the milk just like kittens. They fed in length and weighing 7 pounds. Clyde them so that they would not be ugly. caught the fish below the powerhouse at the This evening I was sitting on the porch Penn Central Light and Power Company and a man from over beyond the Knob came plant on the Raystown Branch. along. We talked a while and he told me Bud Gearhart, 14, caught a black bass a story about a catfish over at Twin Lakes. weighing 2 pounds. The bass measured 15 "Biggest catfish I ever saw," the old fel­ inches and Bud is just about the proudest low said. "Funny looking thing. Had long fisherman in the First Ward. whiskers, one white and one black." Was Frank Warfel claims he caught the "big interested at once. Lived at Twin Lakes brother" to Gearhart's bass. Frank pulled when a boy. Caught a catfish there one a bass weighing 2% pounds and measuring time that had one white and one black Bernard Findlan, New Kensington, with big Carp "e 16 inches in length from Stone Creek. whisker. Let it go again. Maybe this is caught in Shenango River on July 8. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 17

PITCAIRN SPORTSMEN "If anyone wants to see it," came the reply, "They can ask for it." STAGE FINE SHOW That was enough, and with an extended The first annual Sportsmen's show of badge, our young fisherman was immedi­ Pitcairn-Patton Township Sportsmen's ately ordered to place the license on his Club, Thursday, Friday and Saturday eve­ sweater, and furthermore keep it visible at nings, September 9-11, was a decided suc­ all times. cess, both financially, in attendance and by We can only add that such a future giving citizens and visitors a novel enter­ sportsman needs a little old-fashioned edu­ tainment. It was the first affair of the kind cation. Incidentally, the young lad was a held in this section and will be annual af­ student, he had absolutely no reason for act­ fair by the local club and probably by all ing the way he did. valley sportsmen clubs. The idea of a combined club taking in The Other Side all valley towns and adjoining sections has After leaving the Little Lehigh at Rath- been talked of for some time and probably burn's bridge both the warden and your by next year the idea will be worked out. writer traveled up the hill, passed the Salis­ The local club has more than 400 members. bury church and then drove back again The Wall club will probably be combined towards Allentown. On the way we met with Pitcairn. Trafford has a live club and three boys, between 15 and 18, all carry­ excellent club grounds. East Pittsburgh has ing rifles. an active club, and Turtle Creek club is Stopping the machine, the warden asked said to be on the sick list. One club for the the boys where they were going. Quickly valley would mean a couple thousand mem­ and politely the reply came, "Shooting bers, and would be a power in sporting groundhogs." matters and otherwise. Hose Company No. One band in charge "Do you fellows have your hunting li­ of Director Nirella of the W. A. B. band censes?" the warden inquired. and some of its members, gave an excel­ "Yes sir, two of us," the oldest boy re­ lent concert on opening night. Friday night plied and produced his and then instructed his buddy to produce the hunting license. the dog parade, with more than 100 can­ Guy Schultz and Al Volkel of Nanticoke with catch "How about you?" the warden directed ines of many types, was a big street at­ of 10 North Branch Carp weighing 80 pounds. traction. The following were winners of his question to the youngest lad. cups and ribbons: bulldogs: No. 55, first; "I am only going to shoot target, sir," No. 227, second; hounds: Na 52; bound came the answer in a most polite and busi­ Unlike most organizations of this nature, pups: No. 25; bird dogs: No. 57 and No. ness like way. the club will be available to the members' 64; toy bull dogs: No. 26; spaniel: No. After a brief discussion in which the families for parties or picnics. In addition, 24; terriers: No. 23; pomeranians: No. danger of shooting was outlined, the young­ a lot in the most desirable location has 139; just dogs: No. 78. est of the three boys decided to go home been assigned to each member, for build­ The stands did a lively business all three and leave his other two buddies make their ing purposes. rounds of some groundhog holes. nights and the club will make a good ad­ Work is already under way to make a Not a harsh word was ever exchanged, dition to their treasury. Exhibitors included miniature Cooks Forest of the estate with and when the boys left they expressed their Dave's Army Store, of East Pittsburgh, extensive reforestation, trout ponds, swim­ thanks for the information. with a big mounted deer, hunter's cloth­ ming pools, trails and drives. A gravel pit ing and other necessities. Clyde King ex­ These fellows surely have a good begin­ on the property is being made into a pistol hibited many specimens of his taxidermy ning. , and rifle range. A large area will be set work. The Valley Cash Feed Store showed aside for picnics, and competitive revolver, Wayne game and dog feed. Ringnecks raised rifle, shotgun and archery matches. by members of the club were also on the grounds, since liberated near town to make ORGANIZE NEW CLUB The club property will be landscaped and sport for hunters. IN ERIE COUNTY set aside for meetings, parties, tennis and There were numerous prizes, bingo and "Conneautee Range," a new and unique horse shoe courts; a plan has been evolved other amusements. Those in charge of the idea in Sportsman's Clubs has been or­ that will in 6 years pay for the entire show are highly pleased with the patron­ ganized at Edinboro. estate. age received and promise a bigger and bet­ It consists of 125 acres of farm land, The founder, Howard E. Gilbreath of ter show next year. Membership in the club partly wooded, with numerous springs and Erie, has been elected President. The other is open to all citizens. Conneautee Creek, the inlet to Edinboro officers are: Cyril J. Fetzner, Vice Presi­ Lake, cutting through it diagonally, almost dent, and Carl Cooper, Secretary-Treasur­ the entire length. The Club House is situ­ er. Wilfred Dean is Executive Officer, in ated on the highest point of land in the charge of all operations for improving the FUTURE SPORTSMEN vicinity and affords a view for miles around. -• property. The trustees are: John Simmach- Commenting in his column "Field Sports" The membership is limited; new mem­ er, N. F. Newport, Grover C. Klie. in the Allentown Morning Call, Charles H. bers may be admitted only when original Good hunting and fishing is available on Nehf had the following to say concerning members drop out, and only on approval and near the property, with access to the boy fishermen: of all members. lake by boat. On a recent trip with the local fish war­ den, your writer was privileged to the ex­ perience of meeting boys of two extremes. On the one hand a lad, 18 years of age, BOARD OF FISH COMMISSIONERS showed all the distasteful signs of poor HARRISBURG, PA. sportsmanship, while in the other case, just SUBSCRIPTION BLANK the opposite was true. The warden, on approaching a young Enclosed find fifty cents ($.50) for one year's subscription to PENNSYLVANIA fisherman at the Dorney Park boating dam, ANGLER. could easily see that no fishing license was Name being worn. On the first question of where the license was, a snappy report revealed (Print Name) that, "It's over on my basket at the tree." Street and Number "Don't you know that a fishing license is to be worn where it can be seen?" re­ City taliated the warden. 18 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

sportsmen how you could shoot if you real­ Huntingdon Sportsmen ly practiced up a bit, and what guns and rifles could do in the way of bringing down game. This gentleman has been in attend­ ance every year at the Field Day and you at Annual Field Day never tire of watching his skill with guns.

HE Huntingdon County Game, Fish Tand Forestry Association celebrated its third annual Field Day on September 25th. This event has been a popular one in the past and this year exceeded others in its patronage and good times, writes Maurice Banker of the Association. Under the capa­ ble management of Harold Fisher, and his committee, an all-time champion day was held. The day started at 10:00 A. M. with the new traps purchased by the Association for a Skeet Field and operated by Miles Shenefelt and his committee. The traps are convertible and were used this day for straight trap shooting. After this was well under way a "wild cat" trap was set in operation and a turkey shoot started. For the morning these sports held the center of the stage and some real shooting was done. Mr. Storr, the State champion for 1937, Mr. Hawkins, 1936 champion and runner up this year, Mr. Ed. Hellyer past cham­ pion of several years ago, and Boyd In­ gram representative of the Winchester Arms Company gave the boys a sample of Guests at Field Day: Standing, left to right: Isaac Bumgardner, Wm. Lane, Ray Coffman, Thomas Bell, County Protector; Wm. G. Fluke, Commissioner; Wm. J. Davis, Division D Supervisor; Geo. how it's done. Smith, David Titus, Walter Moyer and Henry Metzinger. Bottom row, left to right: Charley Long, Ross Metz, Alex Alexander, "Buddy" Bell, Ralph McCoy, Leon Kayser, Lincoln Lender and James N. Everyone joined in the fun and at Morton, Ass't Director Game Land and Refuges. "chuck" time everyone retired to the free lunch counter where Spencer Bagshaw and of complimentary copies of the Pennsylva­ Following Mr. Ingram's exhibition the his committee were waiting. What a coun­ nia Angler and Pennsylvania Game News fly and bait casting contests were started ter! Open all day and during that time they were distributed to the sportsmen during for both Junior and Senior members. Jim dispensed over 2500 sandwiches. The lowly the day. Kyper and his assistants put on these con­ "Hot Dawg" led in popularity; 105 pounds The afternoon events consisted of a con­ tests and they went over the top with them. of these doggies were fulfilling their des­ tinuation of the morning shoots and of a These contests were open to all sportsmen. tinies. Peanuts, apples, pickles, and coffee demonstration by Boyd Ingram of the Win­ The Junior fly casting was open to boys up were tidbits to help the appetite. chester Arms Company. Boyd showed the to and including 16 years of age and it Several booths were operated by the dif­ ferent departments of the association. The feeding committee had a most elaborate display which was quite an attraction to all. Mr. O. R. "Pop" Shilling one of the oldest members in the organization and Charley Morningstar really showed everyone what feed is for game. Both are to be congrat­ ulated on the fine showing. Another booth was operated by the for­ estry committee, Herb Watts, chairman, which is a real idea for the rest of the Associations. This committee operated a "Shoot the B" all day and their slogan was, "Shoot the B and Plant a Chestnut Tree." The idea of this committee was to raise money to buy the new Chinese blight resis­ tant chestnut trees. Their goal is 50,000 such trees planted in Huntingdon County by 1939. Everyone was glad to spend "two bits" and at the end of the day this com­ mittee had $42.00 for its fund. A new idea was tried with success at the feeding display. A Gun Exchange was op­ erated by "Pop" Shilling and a 10% com­ mission charged. This really was quite suc­ Officers and members of the Huntingdon Association who worked on arranging the field day program. cessful and about twenty-five guns were on Standing, left to right: Harold Corbin, Jim Kyper, Herb Watts, Director, Spencer Bagshaw, Miles Shenefelt, Clarence Goodman, Herman Grubb. Seated, left to right: Howard Shilling, Treas.; Clyde exhibition for exchange or sale. Hundreds Davis, Dir.; T. Roy Morton, Sec; Fred Mark, Pres.; Harold Fisher, Chairman of Field Day; Jay Ranck. PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER 19

took some good casting to win the prizes offered. The first prize was finally taken after a tie breaking cast off, by Donald Kyper. It was a Martin Automatic Reel with a Gladding translucent fly line. Second prize went to Fred Mark, Jr., an Ashaway Fly Line. Third prize, a year's subscription to Na­ tional Sportman magazine, was won by Ken­ neth Pearson. In the Senior contest the old "Maestro" Howd Shilling was finally routed by none other than "Hatch" Johnston, a new dis­ ciple of the gentle art of fly fishing. "Hatch" walked away with first prize, which was an engraved cup and a Shakespeare Truart Automatic Reel. "Howd" had to be satis­ fied with a Weber-Henshall fly line which was donated by "Jack" Jones, an enthu­ siastic member of the association. The bait or plug casting contest came next with too few entrants. It seems the boys don't go in for plug casting around here. This event brought forth the same battling couple as last year. None other

Section of ponds devoted to the culture of the daphnia, or water flea, at Pleasant Mount hatchery, Wayne County. Production of these organisms is vital to successful growing of young bass at the hatcheries.

than our old friend "Line" Lender, fish pro­ tion of game feed samples, which he col­ tector from Bellwood and "Josh" Gerlock. lected for the exhibit, and to C. H. Miller The two put on a real show for first place Hardware Company for their splendid co­ with "Josh" finally taking "Line" for the operation in furnishing ammunition and in­ count and a beautiful $12.00 spiral wind, cidentals at no profit. level winding casting reel. "Line" received one hundred yards of Bristol Silk casting line and the rest of the entrants received "Condolences." After these events the traps and so forth resumed their banging and the men en­ joyed themselves as they pleased until time for another "Doggie & Coffee." After dark the crowd went to the big dance floor and there was entertained by Randolph Thomp­ son and his moving pictures of "Wild Life & Fish Life." A good talk was given by Wm. J. Davis, Supervisor of Division "D," and a very fine talk on our Fish Commis­ sion and our streams by the old left hander, Alex Sweigart, Editor of the Pennsylvania Angler. At 10:00 o'clock the day ended and was proclaimed the day of Field Days. Notable guests present were Hon. Wm. G. Fluke, Game Commissioner; Mr. James "Jimmy" Morton, Assistant Director Bureau Land & Game Refuges; Alex Sweigart, Editor of the Angler; Mr. Wm. J. Davis, Supervisor of Division "D"; Mr. Storr, State Champion Trapshooter of 1937; Mr. Hawkins, 1936 Champion Trapshooter, and Mr. Boyd In­ gram of the Winchester Arms Company. Most of Division "D" Game Protectors were present also. The sportsmen of Huntingdon County appreciate the support of these men who have turned out every year to help in put­ Trout fishermen, look to your laurels. This is the ting over a Field Day, and all look forward fish to beat. Bill Percival of Matamoras, Pike to seeing them next year. County, with his 9 pound 7 ounce brown trout, A word of thanks is due to Walter Moyer, Walter Slovick of Shenandoah with a nice catch of largest ever reported to the ANGLER. Game Refuge Keeper, for his fine contribu­ pickerel from Sweet Arrow Lake in Schuylkill County 20 PENNSYLVANIA ANGLER

A HERE ND THERE 'H ANGLERDOM

With November sounding the closing knell for the 1937 season for game fishes in Pennsylvania, a question comes to mind. Do the readers of the ANGLER desire re­ ports exclusively of catches of certain species such as the bass, for instance, while the season for that species is on, or would they prefer to have bass fishing reports as well as reports of catches of other species of warm water game fishes blended with reports of catches from trout waters dur­ ing 1937? In covering all phases of the freshwater fishing sport, the ANGLER has endeavored, to the greatest degree possible, to serve every group of fishermen in the Common­ wealth. We realize, in doing this, however, that the angle of timeliness has been dis­ regarded to a certain degree. On the other hand, many of our fishermen are trout fish­ ermen, finding their greatest sport astream in quest of the speckled kings. Others count the days on the calendar prior to the open­ ing of the bass season; still others, and plenty of them, find real contentment in angling for carp, suckers, catfish and pan- fish such as the bluegill sunfish. Obviously, in the limited space available in the ANG­ LER each month, some reports must be held over. We believe that, considering every group, these reports of Pennsylvania fish­ ermen and their catches in Pennsylvania waters, whether they concern trout or other species, should be run. Of course, this ap­ plies to the 1937 season. And, in line with this thought, if you have any reports to make or photos to send in, do so, regardless of whether the catch was made during the trout season, in early spring while sucker fishing, or while the bass held sway. The ANGLER is your mag­ azine; your cooperation in making it bigger and better is earnestly requested.

Probably the finest mixed catch to be made during the present season was that of veteran angler George Duvall of Har- risburg while fishing one day in Septem­ ber in the Juniata River at Aqueduct. Mr. Duvall, who is 70 years old, caught a 26 inch wall-eyed pike weighing bVz pounds, a 20 inch smallmouthed bass weighing 4% pounds and several other smallmouths, sev­ eral of them 'around the two pound mark. The fish were taken at a point near which the Juniata has its juncture with the Sus­ quehanna River. * * * Fishing bass bugs early in the season, Charles Kingsley of Towanda landed a three-pound smallmouthed bass at Standing- Stone on the North Branch of the Susque­ Two fish destroyers less in Ice Lake, near White Haven, as W. H. Fairchild of Freeland lands with hanna River. two big snappers, the largest 25 pounds in weight. Photo "by La Mar Mumbar Lower Falls on Picturesque Sawkill Cre ek, popular Pike County trout stream. Sec. 562, P. L. & R. U. S. POSTAGE PAID Harrisburg, Pa. Permit No. 270