East Matty’s “Sergeant Saltwater”

Top Texas Outdoor Magazine for 17 Years (see page 75, #1 for more information!)

TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OutdoorsOUTDOORS Publication” Journal

March 2016 / $3.99 Set to Get Wet | Pop Up on Spring Gobblers Shed Antlers | Fish Attracting Sound + Vibration Reeling In A Record | What Was HOT at S.H.O.T. texasoutdoorsjournal.com

coastal & lake forecasts | tide & solunar tables TEXAS“Texas’ Most Comprehensive OUTDOORSOutdoors Publication” March 2016 Journal

For Hunters . . . For Anglers . . . Freshwater Saltwater 18 Just Shooting 16 Bassology —Kerry O’Day 12 East Matty’s “Sergeant —MattWilliams How Bullets Are Made Saltwater”- One of Texas Upper State Record Spot Coast’s top guides explains why 24 Guns N Stuff 28 Just Fishing East Matagorda Bay is the perfect —Harold Gunn —Brian Hughes location for anglers to target spring What Was HOT at S.H.O.T. 2016 Leapin’ Lizards! trophy trout. —Nate Skinner Lake Roundups — Pros Forecasts 34 Shed Antlers- Overcome those 38 East – Matt Williams off-season, no-deer-hunting 40 North – Brian Hughes blues by searching for these calcified 56 Central – John Jefferson appendages. —Bob Zaiglin 62 South - Danno Wise 64 West – TOJ Staff 64 High Plains – TOJ Staff CoastWatch – Danno Wise 48 Reeling in A Record- TPWD An- 20 Upper Forecast gler Recognition Program is giving 22 Louisiana Forecast credit where credit is due 58 Lower Forecast —Matt Williams 60 Middle Forecast

26 Saltwater Journal 46 Just Handgunning —Mark Sosin —Mike Holmes The Light Wand Getting A Handle On Handgun Grips 30 Fish-Attracting Sound & Vibra- 52 Pop Up On Spring Gobblers- tion- Figure out the right combina- Harvesting a spring gobbler with a tion to catch plenty of fish this spring.—Danno Wise shotgun is certainly exhilarating, however, the rewards from taking one with stick and string are inde- 68 Tackle Tips & Techniques scribable.—Nate Skinner —Danno Wise White Bass Spawning Run 70 Field Tips & Techniques— Bill L. Olson & Danno Wise Early Spring Turkey Tips For Everyone . . . On the Cover . . . 4 Editor’s Insight – Bill L. Olson “ ” 42 Set To Get Wet- The good, bad, 6 TOJ Notebook – TOJ Staff Coastal Action and ugly of wade fishing while 10 Art, Books, & Collectibles - For more information on “Coastal doing it right.—Robert Sloan Bill L. Olson Action” and other fine works of art 67, 69, 71 Guides, Gear & Getaways by Calvin Carter, visit www.calvin- 66 Tackle Tips & Techniques 72 Outdoors Calendar carterart.com, on Facebook at Carter’s —Danno Wise Creations or call (409) 201-6685. Catching in Coastal Winds 74 Fishing & Hunting Times 75 Subscription Information march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 3 Editor’s Insight Bill L. Olson

MARCH — march

Interesting name for the third month of the year. We also know when written as a “Texas’ Most Comprehensive non-capitalized word it means to move forward. Outdoors Publication” March is the month in which spring both officially, and unofficially begins in Texas. The difference can be about three weeks or so depending upon recent weather trends. Publisher/Editor It is an event fill time, one to be optimistic and of a “new” beginning. For example Bill L. Olson March 2, 1836 is the day Texas delegates declared its independence from Mexico. March Administrative Assistant 6, 1836 is the day the Alamo fell after its 183 defenders had fought for 13 days buying Adala Ruhge precious time for the newly formed Republic. March 27, 1836 is the day of the massacre Contributing Outdoors Editors of 417 by Mexican forces at Goliad. All events were a part of Texas’ new beginning. Harold Gunn The botanical makeup of the Lone Star State’s landscape has certainly changed over Brian Hughes the decades, particularly since the post-Civil War era. One has to use their imagination Mike Holmes when driving through much of Texas to image what she looked like prior to the colossal John Jefferson Cody Koehler expansion of mesquite beyond riparian areas. Today the density of mesquite has Kerry O’Day increased to cover areas that were once massive grasslands stretching as far as the eye Bill L. Olson, Jr. could see. In the western and northern portions these grassy plains were where bison, Nate Skinner elk, and pronghorn antelope roamed. A contributing factor to the demise of native Robert Sloan Mark Sosin grasses that allowed mesquite to gain an even larger foothold was the over grazing of Matt Williams cattle during the huge cattle drives from Texas northward during Reconstruction. This Danno Wise was a change, but also a new beginning. For those that love the outdoors, and especially Texas, this is a most enchanting Whitetail Deer Editor Bob Zaiglin month and time. We celebrate our historic struggle for independence through April 21 when victory from Mexico was finally achieved at San Jacinto. I often ponder what Art/Production Editor those early Texans endured and if the beauty we leisurely enjoy today were even seen Sunni Gonzales or recognized during the Runaway Scrape. Advertising Sales Today, in modern Texas we long to escape the concrete and steel jungles of sprawling 713/957-3997, 713/957-3996 (fax) cities. Even rural communities don’t seem far removed from the chaos. Urbanites run from the metropolises to the country towns, where they are joined by others that just Subscription Information want to find that unencumbered piece of ground at the end of the road. Oh how we Call 1-800-222-4TOJ (4865); In Houston, love the tranquility outdoors. 713/957-3997 to charge your subscription by phone. Subscription prices: one year $18.95, This month we hear yelps and gobbles of turkey. With the drought having two years $29.95, three years $39.95. Mail momentarily been checked, resulting in a good hatch of Rios we can also anticipate inquiries/changes of address to: the colorful hillsides covered with wildflowers that will serve as our hunting backdrop. TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal Inland lakes over much of the state are at or near conservation pool for the first time 1706 West Sam Houston Parkway North in years. Great anticipation is written on every anglers face at the launch ramp wondering Houston, Texas 77043 what awaits and will flourish in the abundant waters and new habitat. Coastal anglers also benefit from the rains that helped terrestrial critters and once TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal (ISSN 1082-5940) is a pub- again have creeks and rivers flowing. Rich nutrients flow into brackish backwater marshes lication of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Editorial and that serve as the nurseries for every thing cherished in salty estuaries. advertising offices are located at 1706 West Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston TX 77043. Phone (713) 957-3997. While marveling at the abundance this March it is incumbent on each to march Fax (713) 957-3996. forward as teachers and solicitors — to pass on the knowledge of our history (factually E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] TOJ Online: www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com and accurately) as a Republic, a state, and as a part of a Nation. We also pass on our TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal is published monthly. Photo- rich hunting, fishing, and outdoor heritage. The future of all we love cannot afford for graphs and manuscripts for publication consideration are welcomed, but the publisher assumes no responsibility the next generations to loose touch with the land and all of its frailties or challenges. for such material while in transit or in the office of the Until next month: Pursue all of your outdoor activities in a safe and ethical manner. publication.

Copyright 2016 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without permission is prohibited. Views expressed by TEXAS OUT- DOORS Journal contributors do not necessarily express the views of Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Publication of CAUTION: All technical data in this publication, especially for handloading, reflect the limited experience of individuals using specific advertising in TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal does not con- tools, products, equipment and components under specific conditions and circumstances not necessarily reported in the article and over which Texas Outdoors Journal has no control. The data have not otherwise been tested or verified by Texas Outdoors Journal. Texas stitute endorsement of products or services advertised. Outdoors Journal, its agents, officers and employees accept no responsibility for the results obtained by persons using such data and Volume 25, Number 3 disclaim all liability for any consequential injuries or damages.

4 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 Your New Generation Lures TOJ Notebook

Fishing Boasts Universal Appeal, Attracts Participants from All Walks of Life While the image of the modern Amer- and thus lifestyles, common to anglers Families, both within the Top 10 Tap- ican angler is often portrayed in adver- of all skill levels and types of fishing. By estry™ segments, include busy young tising as a strong looking, middle-aged understanding the types of people who professionals with families who value their white male, new research by Southwick enjoy recreational fishing, it’s possible to time together. The latter group is one of Associates conducted for the American determine where additional clusters of the fastest growing markets in the country. Sportfishing Association (ASA) reveals existing and potential anglers live. The This group is younger than the stereotyp- a much broader-and more accurately report can even help determine the types ical angler and has smaller children and is detailed-view of today’s “typical” angler. of gear and brands of equipment certain more ethnically diverse. Rural workers, soccer moms, retired anglers may be more apt to purchase. •The Ethnic Enclaves and Next Wave DESIGNED TO THE GILLS! professors, young auto mechanics, busy This information is particularly re- LifeModes (suburban and urban commu- young parents and wealthy empty-nesters vealing as conservation groups and state nities with ethnically diverse populations, who own multiple homes are all part of agencies seek to recruit, retain and reac- particularly Hispanics) currently have PAUL’S UNFAIR NEW RADICAL Lures that Match the SHRIMP today’s angling community. tivate (known as the R3 initiative) those low rates of fishing participation but Look and Sonic Signature of REAL Baits! The recent Southwick report “Life- people apt to participate in angling as well are predicted to experience the largest styles of Today’s Angler: Tapestry™ Seg- as those who have fished before, enjoy population growth in the future, making Unfair Lures are All About Accuracy. Years of knowledge about sh feeding behavior and lure action are embodied into every lure. Each lure mentation of Licensed Anglers” provides fishing, but for various reasons do not them better targets for angler recruitment feature is the sum of careful observation and eld testing that results information on the lifestyle types most do it regularly. Examples of the types of efforts. in a line of lures that match the look and sonic signatures of its living likely to engage in fishing. information revealed in the study include: •The Green Acres segment is the most ‘relative’. The unique Patented 3D Bleeding Gill Screams “Attack Me”. PAUL’S UNFAIR “When neighborhood types are •Residents of Cozy Country Living, common one across all participation cate- Patented features like the ‘Bleeding RIP-N-SLASH aligned with fishing license data, we get Rustic Outposts, GenXurban and Family gories (retained, recruited and reactivated Gill’, ‘Living Eye’, Hydrodynamic much more specific information about Landscapes (lifestyle, also referred to as Li- anglers), accounting for roughly 7 percent Molded Fins and a Stainless Steel current anglers’ lifestyles and can identify feMode, types identified in TapestryTM) of the overall angler population. These Swivel, that improves action and the potential market for luring more into account for 62 percent of all licensed people tend to be avid do-it-yourselfers, eliminates line twists, make our the angling fold,” says Rob Southwick, anglers. with all the necessary tools and equipment lures standout. Successfully shed PAUL’S UNFAIR president of Southwick Associates. •Cozy Country Living is the identified for home improvement and care of their in saltwater and freshwater. MULLET The study focused on an analysis of lifestyle with the highest rate of fishing land. They enjoy a range of outdoor activ- Now You Have Lures…YOU CAN FISH WITH CONFIDENCE. fishing license sales data from 12 states participation-its residents are more than ities. They also tend to be older married overlaid with Address Coder and Tap- two times as likely to fish as the rest of the couples, many with no children, who live — Paul van Reenen estry lifestyle segmentation software to U.S. population. in rural enclaves within more metropol- Inventor and originator of all Unfair Lures designs determine the types of neighborhoods, •Soccer Moms and Up and Coming itan areas. PAUL’S UNFAIR ARROWHEAD

Cover Art The big speckled trout action continues in March. Anglers PAUL’S UNFAIR wading or drifting mud bottom have been catching some im- DAWGWALKER pressive trout through the winter months. That action will only increase as Spring arrives and conditions continue to warm. This month’s cover image is by popular Texas wildlife and sporting artist Calvin Carter. His watercolor entitled “Coastal Action” depicts an encounter every coastal angler wants to ex- perience. A big, thick sow spotted sea trout has assaulted a wad- ing fisherman’s offering. While the angler battle the acrobatic speck his fishing buddy unhooks another solid Texas trout. For more information on “Coastal Action” and other fine works of art by Calvin Carter, please visit his website at www. calvincarterart.com, on Facebook at Carter’s Creations or call Visit our website to
nd a dealer near you. (409) 201-6685. www.UnfairLures.com “Coastal Action” 6 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 RMEF Records All-Time volunteers serving in 500 chapters spread feet of exhibit hall space - all new records Membership High across the United States. They take part for this extremely important and rapidly The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in conservation projects and raise funds growing event. marked its seventh consecutive year that are put back on the ground in their “The annual convention is our largest of record growth by announcing a backyards to bolster RMEF’s mission of fundraiser of the year, a chance for hunters new membership total of 219,750 as ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, and conservation-minded people from of December 31, 2015. The new figure their habitat and our hunting heritage. across the globe to gather and generate represents a seven percent increase from The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation the revenue necessary for DSC to fulfill just a year ago and highlights the largest is also gaining a greater following through its mission statement,” DSC Executive single year of membership growth since its social media platforms. Facebook Director Ben Carter said. “In all, the 2016 2010. Since its founding in 1984, RMEF recently topped 400,000 likes while the DSC Convention raised over $6 million has carried out more than 9,800 lifetime RMEF blog Elk Tracks has approximately to directly support wildlife conservation, projects that protected or enhanced more 860,000 page views and YouTube has outdoor education and the protection of than 6.7 million acres of vital elk habitat. nearly one million views. Discover why hunters’ rights around the world.” RMEF has also assisted in restoring wild, “Hunting Is Conservation™” at www. The 2016 DSC Convention saw 450 CONSERVATION. EDUCATION. HUNTERS’ ADVOCACY. free-ranging elk herds to their native rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK. new members added to the group, range in Wisconsin, Kentucky, Tennessee, growing the global membership totals the Great Smoky Mountains National DSC Sets New Records for to well over 6,000. In keeping with the Park, Missouri and Virginia, and is an Attendance, Fundraising at 2016 event’s record-setting theme, each night’s integral part of on-going efforts in West Convention banquet sold out with more than 1,300 Virginia. The total value of RMEF’s all- Attendees from around the world, attendees at each event where several time conservation work recently topped united in their appreciation for wildlife awards were presented to deserving JOIN TODAY the $1 billion milestone. and hunting’s crucial role in conservation, recipients from the hunting world. “We especially need to recognize and helped the 2016 DSC Convention continue • Weatherby Award: Barbara Sackman, commend our volunteers from coast-to- its record-breaking ways with more than of New York, N.Y. coast for their work with RMEF banquets, 51,000 attendees during the event’s four- • Conklin Award: Jim Shockey, of membership drives and other events,” day run. Inside the convention center, British Columbia said David Allen, RMEF President and 1,035 exhibitors and 1,850 different • Dixie Yeatts Award of Excellence: CEO. RMEF has more than 11,000 active exhibits filled more than 800,000 square Scott Toberman, of Irving, Texas • DSC Literary Award: Dave Baxter, of Flint, Texas • Educator of the Year: Lloyd Love of Pasadena (Texas) Memorial High School • Colin Caruthers Young Hunter Award: co-winners Tucker Ribman, of Dallas, and Garret Davidson, of Plano, Texas • Peter Hathaway Capstick Hunting Heritage Award: International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) • DSC Outstanding Hunting Achievement Award: Suzie Brewster, of Marietta, Okla. The DSC Convention returns to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Jan. 5-8, 2017, with even more attendance and fund-raising records expected to be broken as hunters and conservationists will again rally to defend wildlife and habitat around the world. Dallas Safari Club is a member of IUCN and is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world. In the past five years, more than $6.7 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of that mission. For more information visit www.biggame.org. Visit us at www.biggame.org 8 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 ©2012 Dallas Safari Club ART, BOOKS, & COLLECTIBLES | Bill L. Olson curl as it cooks creating a “Spider Dog.” instructions are “Camping Skills” has a complete array included. Other Great Books to Mentor Survival and Outdoor Skills of practical knots, an easy to understand things of interest section orienteering and compass skills, that caught my natural direction decoders and trail eye during the markers. search for quality All of this is wrapped up with the all instructional In my office, at my home are some the provider can disappear as quickly as important answer to the question, “what books were large bookcases. The majority of the it appeared. happens if you get lost?” things out of the shelves are stocked with a variety of As a big proponent of “Passing It On,” Watching changes in the weather is ordinary for most outdoor references books, some of which I have enjoyed years of hands on tutelage important to anyone venturing outdoors. like panning for date back to my youth. I know how old of outdoor things with my daughter and Understanding what clouds and other gold. some are because important passages son as they grew up. When they display or changes mean allows one to be prepared. It reminded are underlined in pencil as they pre-date recite certain skill sets it is most gratifying. Also being away from the city lights me of my youth yellow highlighters. This accumulation When distance plays a role, and you’d allows for an entirely different night sky in the Rockies of fishing, hunting, survival, boating like to occasionally tutor new pupils, to be seen. as we panned and other outdoor related information instructional books will introduce and It is hard to see some constellations for gold in clear represents where my studies began and expand on basic outdoor knowledge without the benefit of a truly dark sky. running creeks continued. and abilities. I look forward to someday And there are monthly suggestion as to in Colorado Today many look to the internet which teaching grandkids about exciting things where to look to see starry images in the surrounded by can be a good source of information, but it in wild places. night’s sky. mountains sides can also lead one astray. Put your by-line Over the past few years I have become The idea of camping and being dotted with old on a book, article, or publication and it friends with a youngster who seems to not outdoors is to have fun. Experiments mine shafts and represents some stability. only be interested but passionate about and projects, outdoorsy arts and crafts tailings. All three of the books were bought Provide bad information, or wild things. and campout fun and games round out With over 6,800 illustrations “Camping through on-line book resellers and information that has not been confirmed He is his mother’s constant companion this great book. There are even some silly & Survival” — The Ultimate Outdoor each will entice readers of all ages. As a or substantiate and credibility is on regular forays to the high country, campfire songs, if you want sing along. Book has gained a reputation as a first combination this trio are references any diminished or even lost. The printed word fishing trips at home and abroad and Survival” by Denise Long is solid book The final book of this trio of reach for concise outdoor skills. one can grow with. is there forever while bad information like many filled with an endless array of of outdoor skills. From basic knots to information is Paul Tawrell’s “Camping on the web may continue to circulate or inquisitive questions. I find myself eager ways of building a fire, various shelters, & Survival — The Ultimate Outdoors to help mentor him finding and preparing safe water to drink, Book.” This best selling book reportedly as he cultivates navigating plus more, this little book has sold over 520,000 copies and I can his emerging provides a good start for any newcomer. assure you my money was well invested in passion for the Lynn Brunelle’s “CAMP OUT — The this outdoor tome of information. outdoors, how to Ultimate Kids’ Guide” goes even further With over 615 pages this might be safe or deal with and its illustrations and layout will hold overwhelm a young reader, but provides any unexpected the young or young at hearts attention. a great entrée for a parent or other mentor challenge. “CAMP OUT” is instructional but also to learn together. It is a book that no one, It allows me to offers fun activities while learning. regardless of outdoor experience will out relive “firsts” once The Content’s page is fairly simple, grow. again through but entices readers to delve into each Tawrell has provided detail his eyes, or even chapter’s wealth of information. From descriptions along with great illustrations see things from a pre-trip logistical planning in “Gearing to cover just about any situation, in any different perspective Up” to setting up camp in “Home Away ecological region or terrain around the that first learned or from Home” lays the groundwork. world. From jungles to the coast, dealing observed. Who doesn’t like to eat food cooked with the chill of the high country to the To answer some over a campfire? “Good Grub” is truly a heat of the desert, on land or at sea there of his question and chapter on fun food for hungry campfolks. is a plethora of survival tips, techniques help start his own From suggested menus to everything and skills. library I did some needed for the camp pantry is covered. Different climates call for different research and came The fun parts are the suggestions for shelters, tools and preparation. There across three books those that might not have been exposed are also different modes of travel and that provide a basis to Scouting like foil wrapped items. challenges that come with each. Whether to increase and Amazing meals can be prepared in heavy- it is by foot, horseback, by water, or expand his outdoor duty aluminum foil, wrapped and placed snowmobile helpful tips will help keep skills. over coals. you safe. “Survivor Kid — How about roasted hot dogs over a While those within Texas will never A Practical Guide fire? However, here’s a twist as just a few have to deal with an avalanche or have to Wilderness slices the length of the wiener will have it the opportunity to build a snow cave,

10 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 11 EAST MATTY’S “SERGEANT SALTWATER”

hen wade fishing for trophy hangers on purpose. certain structure where fish should be speckled trout it’s always This was the situation I found myself staging to feed. Once we reached a certain Wnice to be surrounded by in while scooting along the south shoreline distance from the boat he whistled and those whose hands have gripped some of East Matagorda Bay under the direction gave hand signals to put us on the “X,” downright giants. When the guys walking of Captain Trey Prye and joined by his similar to a Sergeant assembling and alongside, thigh deep in the brine, have longtime tournament partner and friend, directing his troops for battle. We were collectively and consistently caught specks Cutt Ableson. These two anglers had armed with plug chunking rods and reels to near double digits year after year, it’s brought many a stud fish to hand over the — ready for that one distinct “thump.” hard not to feel good about targeting wall years and both would add more weight to Hours later during the ride in, as the their long list of big last few brilliant orange rays from the sun trout on this day. began to sink on the horizon, Prye said Their proven something I’ll never forget, “An old man One of Texas Upper Coast’s top guides explains why East Matagorda Bay success may come once told me that the best parts of any from a business like day on the water are the ride out with the is the perfect location for anglers to target spring trophy trout. attitude towards sun rising in all its glory and then the ride the challenge. They back to the ramp with a view like that,” as Story and photography by Nate Skinner were constantly he pointed towards the sunset. “The rest focused on one is just icing on the cake.” goal — catching By the time we reached the dock monsters. Trout that evening on Caney Creek in Sargent, between their winter refuges, and warm during the spring and summer rain events fatter as the spawn kicks into full swing, in the eight pound our “cake” had plenty of icing as East water havens. Combining this with the of 2015. The ample amounts of rain that and there’s no better time than now to class and larger Matagorda had proven to be a great extreme fluctuation of spring tides this fell over the recently passed winter months catch a trophy.” were our quarry bay system for anglers to target colossal leaves a lot to consider when trying to continued to boost the bay’s population The spring transition pattern demands and every possible speckled trout this spring. create a successful game plan that will of big trout. that anglers make a change in the targeted step that could be Springtime brings about a transition bring unforgettable yellow-mouthed “Typically, a lot of the mature trout structure and bottom composition, as well taken to fool one along the Texas Coast that can make trout to hand. will stage up in the deep waters of the as a switch in bait presentations. In East of these giants into patterning fish difficult. March sparks Luckily, the waters of East Matagorda Intracoastal and work their way up Matagorda Bay Prye says he will make striking plastic was this transition period with the first signs Bay are holding tons of trophy trout that the river systems of the Colorado, San these adjustments primarily along the considered. of warm “spring-like” weather. Although have already been staging in certain areas Bernard, or Brazos Rivers during the southern and western shorelines. Prye pointed us anglers welcome these mild temperatures for several months. This bay offers a winter months,” Prye explained. “This “In March I’ll start focusing my wades in the direction we with open arms there will still be a few variety of structure and a diversity of areas winter was different because all of these along sand flats with some scattered grass needed to walk. As cool fronts ahead. that will hold fish during the inevitable areas were full of freshwater, forcing big and shell in knee to thigh deep water,” he we bailed out of the While Mother Nature can’t decide inconsistent weather patterns of spring. trout and the baitfish they feed on to stack stated. “The fish will start to pull up onto boat he instructed whether she wants to be warm or cool, Prye says the numbers of large trout up in East Matagorda Bay. “Basically these areas and off of the deeper mud they us as to where we anglers are left dealing with a “yo-yo” are the best he’s seen in a long time. He quality fish in numbers have been staging were staging during the winter. Cutt Ableson with a solid early spring time yellow-mouth sow trout should encounter of conditions or scenarios as fish are attributes this to all the freshwater the on shorelines and filling up on mullet “I’ll also make a switch to throwing caught and released along East Matagorda’s south shoreline. depth changes or constantly moving back and forth Matagorda and Sargent area received all winter long. They are fat and getting more and more topwater baits as the water

12 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 13 warms,” he confessed. catching large trout come during the Why East Matagorda? “When the topwater bite three to four days leading up to a full During my time on the water with isn’t happening, I’ll be moon. This stretch of days becomes Captain Trey Prye, I couldn’t help but working suspending hard even better when the barometer pressure wonder why he made East Matagorda baits with more of a fatter, is either rising or falling between 29.05 his “home base” for catching fish of a shad-like profile as shad, and 31.05 MB. lifetime. Here’s an angler who’s caught and later glass minnows During this full moon period Prye says countless numbers of trout to eight as they begin to pour out anglers should look for a quick, early bite of bayous and marshes.” from sunrise to an hour or so after sun up. pounds and heavier in different bay As anglers make Then a better bite will occur from midday systems up and down the Texas Coast this switch in bait to late in the afternoon. as well as in Southwest Louisiana. So presentation, they should “Sometimes the best action when the I posed the question, “Why East Mat- add the following baits to moon is full can occur at sunset to a few agorda?” their arsenal of big trout hours after, as the fish will often turn on Prye’s reply was simple. “I feel like I enticing plugs. When it right at dark,” says Prye. can catch a 10 pounder at any given mo- comes to topwaters, few If monster trout is the goal, anglers ment when I’m wade fishing here. The lures walk as well across should look no further than East next thump that I feel vibrating down the water’s surface as the Matagorda Bay. my rod tip could be my next personal Dawg Walker by Unfair All the components that make up a best — it’s a confidence thing that I don’t Lures. If small shad and trophy’s haven exist there and some of feel anywhere else.” glass minnows are present the best trout anglers in the state have Prye says it’s the vast number of lo- then the smaller, Dawg brought numerous wall-hanger-class fish cations or “hot spots” that hold a variety Slider is a great surface to hand from its waters. of structures that make East Matagorda option. Spring’s transition is happening a wade fisherman’s paradise. For subsurface action right now and there are plenty of eight “There’s so many different areas that it’s hard to beat Unfair pounders to tangle with, not to mention can be waded and large trout can be Lures’ Rip-n-Slash. This some even bigger. Make the switch, follow caught at all of them, depending on the bait has a great swimming the pattern, and go after that trout of a Anglers armed with the right plugs, following the spring transition pattern, and focused on the During a full moon, sometimes the best action will take place conditions,” he said. action that possesses that lifetime. task at hand will have success when casting for monster specks in East Matagorda Bay. right at sunset. Anglers desiring to learn this Upper tantalizing, suspending Coast Bay should pick up Hook-N-Line pause that drives giant trout wild, plus it trout will hang out at the edge of the flat Fishing Chart F108 for a list of general gives off the sonic signature of a wounded near this drop off as they ambush baitfish wade fishing hot spots and their GPS baitfish in the water. being pulled out of the marsh drain by the coordinates. Studying this chart is a According to Prye, the ideal spring tide.” he said. good start to pursuing trophy trout in situation is to find a sand flat teeming with Strong winds are another element East Matagorda Bay, plus a day on its wa- mullet, shad, and glass minnows adjacent anglers will be dealing with during ters with Captain Trey Prye will bring a to the mouth of a bayou. There are many spring’s transition and Prye says he likes wealth of knowledge to anyone wanting areas like this along East Matagorda’s to use them to his advantage. “Most of to hone in on catching monster trout. south shoreline and the best time to fish the time spring winds will blow from For more information visit www. them is during an outgoing tide. a southerly direction, which makes captaintreyprye.com or call (281) 702- “Usually there is a gut or slight drop the entire south shoreline fishable,” he 0490. off at the mouth of these bayous and large explains. “The strong winds will dirty up the water making trophy fish less finicky — it’s much easier to camouflage yourself while walking in big trout territory if the water is off color, plus the baits don’t stick out as much which produces more aggressive strikes.” Two other things anglers should consider when targeting quality trout are the moon phase and barometric pressure. Prye says his best days for consistently

Left: The Unfair Lures Rip-n-Slash is a great sub surface presentation for anglers to “match the hatch” with this spring when targeting trophy trout.

14 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 15 BASSOLOGY | Matt Williams mote location. The nearest town is Justiceburg, with State Record Spot a population of 60. “There’s not much out there,” Helm- stetler said. The first stop was the local bait shop record set in 2011 of Lubbock, said the fish were feeding lake regulars sometimes refer to as “The by Erik Atkins of aggressively that morning, particularly Store.” The store clerk said they had scales, Lubbock. Atkins’ from about mid-morning on. but they weren’t working at the time. fish weighed 5.62, “We caught 33 fish total and all but “He went to go get another set, so we which topped the three of them were spotted bass,” he said. put the fish in a minnow vat and waited long-standing “They were hanging around this big flat for about an hour for him to get back,” Lake O’ The Pines in the Big Grape Creek area. The water Helmstetler said. state record of 5.56 was about 10 feet deep and the fish were The angler said the fish weighed 6.02 pounds set way suspended.” pounds on those scales, but he eventually back in 1966. The anglers had caught close to a learned from the local game warden that Naturally, dozen fish on Rat-L-Traps and jerk baits the scales hadn’t been re-certified for Helmstetler was when the bite went stale for about an hour. accuracy in two years. stoked about the That’s when they decided to move closer “I was getting pretty frustrated,” he catch. to the creek channel. said. “It weighed less every time I weighed “Alan Henry Not long after the move is when the it .” is full of big ol’ big bass slammed Helmsteter’s suspending At that point, the store clerk said he spots,” he said. “I jerk bait, a LIVETARGET Glass Minnow knew of a meat market in Slaton where don’t know how BaitBall in a Silver Natural pattern. The they could weigh the fish, but it was about long my record will 5/8-ounce minnow-shaped bait features 45 miles away. He called ahead just for hold, but I’m going a clear shell with multiple profiles of good measure. to enjoy it while I “We didn’t think twice about making baitfish inside. It is designed to simulate When the certified scales at Klemke’s Sausage Haus in Slaton settled at 5.98 pounds, Helmstetler c an .” a small school of minnows or shad that that trip,” Helmstetler said. “We refilled said he felt a sense of relief, excitement and disappointment all at the same time. Spotted bass have separated from the school. our live wells with treated water from are native to many Thinking he had hooked up with a the minnow vat, loaded up the fish and lakes across eastern giant largemouth, Helmstetler summoned t o o k off .” Texas, but fisheries Gard for help. Roughly an hour later the anglers biologists believe “At first I thought I had hold of the rolled into the parking lot at Klemke’s Helmstetler’s fish is biggest bass of my life, because it was Sausage Haus in Slaton. The market spe- likely a descendant fighting so hard,” he said. “Once I got it cializes in making beef jerky and other of one of about up to the boat I was sort of disappointed goodies, but food was the last thing on 150 adult Alabama because it didn’t look very big. But when Helmstetler’s mind. Courtesy Photo spotted bass that got it out of the net I was like, ‘holy crap, “I just wanted to get the fish weighed Josh Helmstetler of Big Spring with his new Texas state record spotted were stocked in the this is a huge spot!’” before it lost any more weight,” he said. bass caught from Lake Alan Henry on January 9. The 5.98-pound lake in 1996. Al- The angler knew he had a trophy fish When the scales settled at 5.98 pounds, bruiser is the second consecutive state record spotted bass produced by though they don’t in his hands, but he didn’t realize just Helmstetler said he felt a sense of relief, Alan Henry since 2011. grow near as big as how big it was until the rest of the club excitement and disappointment all at the largemouths, spots members gathered for weigh in at 3 p.m. same time. It’s been years since Lake Alan Henry are recognized as fierce fighters with ex- Placed on uncertified scales, the 22 3/16 “I knew I had the record and I was in the Texas Panhandle has grabbed any tremely aggressive attitudes. inch bass weighed 6.26 pounds. It had a excited about that,” he said. “But I was headlines for kicking out bragging size Helmstetler, 29, caught the fish on the 14 inch girth. also sort of disappointed that she didn’t bass, but last January the little 2,800-acre morning of January 9. He was competing “And that was after it spit up four shad weigh six pounds. Either way, it’s a pretty reservoir located 45 miles from Lubbock in a Big Spring Bass Club tournament at about 2 1/2 inches long,” Helmstetler said. good deal, though. In looking back I don’t jumped back into the spotlight in a very the time, but says he was dressed as if he “At first I thought I had the possible lake know that it was anything but luck, but I big way. were about to hit the slopes at one of his record, but then the guy from a nearby sure am glad I caught it.” Interestingly, it wasn’t one of those favorite snow skiing destinations. bait shop showed up. But the deal wasn’t done just yet. The double-digit largemouths for which Alan “It was a really cold that day,” he said. “When I told him I had a six pounder next order of business was returning the Henry became famous in the mid-2000s “The high was supposed to be about 37 he told me it would beat the state record. fish to the storied lake that produced it. that put it back on the radar. degrees, but I don’t know that it made it. I said ‘Dadgum, let’s go get that sucker “It was probably the most stressful 4-5 Instead, it was a new state/lake record I had all of my ski gear on when I caught weighed on a certified scale!’” hours of my life,” Helmstetler said. spotted bass reeled in by Josh Helmstetler it, even my goggles.” Anxious to get an official weight on “It was 8 p.m. before we got it back of Big Spring. But the chilly conditions didn’t seem the big spot, the hunt for a set of certified in the lake, but she was very lively and The fish weighed 5.98 pounds, which to bother the fish. Hemstetler, who was scales was on. That proved to be no easy in great shape. I think she’ll make it just beats out the former state and lake accompanied in the boat by Justin Gard feat, mainly because of Alan Henry’s re- fine.” 16 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 17 Just Shooting | Kerry O’Day drive through to the other side of the animal making great wound channels and How Bullets Are Made killing the animal more effectively. This was the first of the so-called controlled expanding bullets. I remember shooting some of the first Nosler partition bullets, they shot There are some incredible new bullets someone came up with the great idea of As bullet makers became more terrible as far as accuracy but they killed on the market. Both the hunting market putting a small copper base on the bullet complex and started to make the jacket a better than any bullet I had used before. and the self-defense market have seen and, WOW, we could make bullets faster different thickness; being thinner in the It took Nosler years to perfect this bullet a great deal of new technology being and still have them expand when it hit a front and thicker at the base. to what it is now, which is a very deadly applied into making bullets that have a game animal. That way the front of the bullet would accurate bullet. flatter trajectory, perform exceptionally As the velocity of guns got faster and expand more and the bottom of the bullet Barnes started to work with a solid on impact and shoot more accurately brass cased ammunition became the norm, could drive deeper in the big game being copper bullet which had no lead inside than ever before. Bullet companies are jacketed bullets had to be made better and hunted. of it at all. They were making bullets on using exotic materials to build bullets now. stronger so they could withstand the Then a company called Nosler took old screw machines then went to huge Powdered tungsten and super plastics, as higher pressure and velocity. Jackets on it to the extreme and developed a bullet swaging presses to form the inside and These three bullets were recovered from a dead Cape Buffalo. Bullets that looked this good and well as aluminum are being used instead bullets were made of harder brass and that acted like two bullets. The base of outside of the bullet. This was a new and worked that well were unheard of 20 years ago. of lead and brass jackets. this became the way bullets were made the bullet was a hard lead and tin mix unheard of technology. I’m sure most of us have seen the for nearly 100 years. All they did was take with a very thick jacket while the front of At first, it didn’t work very well but self-defense bullets. Made with a large that have been shot with these bullets movie, “The Patriot” where Mel Gibson a brass tube, melt or press in a soft lead the bullet was made with soft lead and a after years of research and feedback from hollow point and a fragile jacket they will and the damage is pretty amazing. I can melts his son’s toy soldiers to make alloy then run the jacket through a press thin jacket. hunters and shooters, Barnes finally made do great damage. hardly wait to get some of these bullets round ball bullets for his pistol and that would form or shape the bullet to They went one step further and swaged a bullet that would shoot well and open Inceptor is making some really to test and shoot at the range to see how muzzleloader. In the old days making look like the bullets you see today. The a thick brass center in the middle of the to twice its original size with penetration different bullets for handguns. Some accurate they are. bullets was easy, all you did was melt some softer the lead alloy and the amount of bullet. The front end of the bullet would all the way through the game animal. The of the bullets are made from plastic and For a shooter or handloader, there are nice soft lead and pour it into a steel mold lead exposed would determine how well open and expand very easily on the animal inside of a Barnes bullet is built with a have special driving bands that cause the lots of new bullets to try out. and out would come a bullet which could the bullet would expand. while the back half of the bullet would hollow cavity and small cuts to create a bullet to spin when it hits the object being I just wish I could get brass to load be loaded and used. bullet that looks like a flower after it hits shot. I have seen photos of wild boars more ammunition. Eventually we something. The front of the bullet will got a little more pull back like the petal of a flower and sophisticated and yet hold together causing terrible damage decided to make and in most cases, full penetration of the the bullets a little game animal. more uniform, so Today, the newest thing with rifle we started to push bullets is to make them longer, heavier the soft lead bullets and slicker so they have a higher ballistic through a tube to coefficient. A higher ballistic coefficient make them all a means the bullets fly farther and shoot universal size. This flatter. helped make the There’s one problem with making a bullets shoot better hunting bullet for long range shooting; and more accurately it has to be fragile enough to expand too. well when it hits at long range. So many As we started times if you take a closer shot on animals to make bullets go that fragile long range bullet will explode faster, we found that on the bone of the game animal and not the soft lead would get inside to do the intended damage, start to melt and foul which means not killing the animal being the barrel quickly. hunted. Then we started to If you know all of your shots will be use a patch or wax long range then these bullets will work lube on the bullets great but watch out for close up shots. to help stop the Plus I hope you, the hunter, can do justice fouling. Harder lead by the animal you are hunting and put the was made by adding shot where it needs to go. tin to the lead but Pistol bullets have come a long way the bullets would as well. There are some really dynamic not expand as well as bullets on the market now. soft lead bullets, so Some new bullets and ammunition from Inceptor for self defense handguns. Lehigh bullets are one of my favorite

18 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 19 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71

Matagorda Bay, so that will be our focus. we’ll be throwing live shrimp under weather pretty much dictates when and “When we are wading, we will usually popping cork or live mullet on bottom. where we can fish.” Danno Wise be throwing topwaters - a lot more We will be catching some flounder in bay Sabine Lake guide Capt. Randy CoastWatch Skitterwalks and various MirrOlure as well. During March I do a lot of fish and Foreman says there are two keys to topwaters. And, as long as it stays cool will gig combinations. Basically, we do some consistently catching fish in March – water stick to throwing Corky’s. evening fishing and then some nighttime movement and bait. Warmer weather, warmer water and time,” said Countz. “When we are looking for numbers, we gigging. Because we’ve had a little warmer “March is almost always one of the the possibility of landing a trophy trout “Cold fronts are still will be drifting the reefs in East Matagorda winter, the flounder have already started best months,” said Foreman. “You can are all pluses that come with the third hitting the coast, but Bay. If we’re fishing out of the boat, we making their way back into bay. In March, really catch a lot of fish, but you’ve got month of the year. However, March’s often less frequently than in usually throw soft-plastics. I throw a lot the flounder run will be going strong. to find mullet and you have to fish on an relentless winds can also hinder fishing January and February of Bass Assassin Sand Eels and Swimmin’ “Most years I find that half the time incoming tide. plans. So, inshore anglers definitely have and with a lot less Shad. I’m around jetties and the other half I’m “Most of the time, I’ll be drifting the a give-and-take relationship with the impact. Spring is just “Although March can be a tough time in the bay during March. Again, my first flats on the Louisiana side, fishing two month of March. around the corner and to fish the marshes and back lakes, we will choice is the jetties, but in March the to four feet of water over mussel flats. However, along the Upper Texas and we tend to try to wish it be finding some fish in the deeper ditches Louisiana coasts, fishermen will have here sooner. in marshes around Freeport. On some plenty of options – trophy trout, “box size” “In March I like to hit warmer days they will be on flats. There specks, reds, flounder, and sheepshead – the south shore of West are still plenty of fish in the marshes, but given favorable conditions. Matagorda, working the fish are starting to move in spring pattern drains coming out of and they are a little more spread out than the peninsula. Usually they will be at other times. So if you are UPPER COAST March marks the fishing in marsh you need to cover a lot beginning of consistent of water. topwater action. I’ll “Overall, March is usually pretty good. start the morning It is a great time to catch that personal throwing Spook Jrs best trout. Or, you can always drift over or small Skitterwalks. Photo courtesy Captain Greg Verm reefs for numbers. The main thing about On low tides, you can Captain Greg Verm will have anglers of all ages bowed up on March is that it is very weather dependent. 224 & 256 NOW AVAILABLE. Carolina are 180, 200, 220, Veriside 23’ & Highside 200 usually find some fish this spring. In March most of the action will be concentrated If it stays cold, we will do more wade bow shape. Sef-bailing deck, hand-laid hull & draw only 9 1/2” of water. 10-year transferable cap. Locking & storage, premium upholstery. hull warranty. hungry redfish cruising around the Galveston jetties. fishing. When it warms up, we will be 100% composite construction. No wood to rot! the flats looking for an drifting more. When it is cold, we catch easy meal. If the topwater bite is slow, chartreuse or Morning Glory. less numbers but larger size. By the end I’ll shift gears and switch to a MirrOlure “Remember the weather and the fish of the month, warmer weather means Matagorda guide Capt. Tommy Little John rigged on a 1/8 ounce leadhead. are in transition and patience must be a more numbers.” Countz says March is a transition month My go to colors are glow/chartreuse or big part of your game plan.” Galveston guide Capt. Greg Verm says and both East and West Matagorda Bay Purple Demon. This little bait throws like Sargent-based guide Capt. Trey Prye he’ll be splitting time between the jetties will be offering anglers excellent action. a bullet and doesn’t catch much grass. Like of Capt. Trey’s Trophy Charters says his and the back bays during March. Where “March in Matagorda is a transition all MirrOlure soft plastics is pre-scented. he’ll be from day to day is dependent on game plan for March is much the same Still building legends, one at a time. 22’ - 25’ “If I’m as it was for February. the weather. models availble. We also carry saltwater bass boats by Ranger. fishing from the “In March, the big trout will still be “March will be a mix of things for boat, I’ll most showing up over mud and shell,” said Prye. me,” said Verm. “We are going to be likely be in East “So, we’ll still be wading mud bottom and gigging flounder, plus catching drum and Matagorda Bay targeting big trout. For the most part, sheepshead around the jetties, and fishing either drifting I’ll still be throwing Corky Fat Boys and for specks and reds in the back bay areas. scattered shell Unfair Lures Mullets. As it gets warmer, “I like to fish the jetties as much as on the west end the topwater action should be getting possible during March. When we are or drifting mud better as well.” fishing for big bull black drum around flats on the east Freeport and Sargent guide Capt. the jetties, we’ll be using cracked crab and end. Heavier Kendall Kersh of Pure Salt Adventures fishing in about 20 feet of water. There leadheads are will also be spending some time chasing will also be a lot spawning sheepshead the ticket in the trophy trout in East Matagorda Bay. around the jetties. We catch most of the deeper water, so “In March, we’lll be doing a number sheepshead on free-lined live shrimp. I’ll use 1/4 or of things,” said Kersh. “But, at least early in Again, I would be at the jetties every day if 3/8 ounce heads March, we’ll spend most of our time wade I could. But, of course, in March there are with either fishing in East Matagorda Bay, looking for days when it is too windy to fish around Mirrolure Soft trophy trout. I’ll also spend some time the jetties. Photo courtesy Captain Trey Prye Shad or Marsh drifting East Bay for trout and reds and “If the wind is bad and it’s too rough In March Captain Trey Prye will continue to focus on putting clients on big Minnows. I’ll fishing some in the marshes and back lakes to fish the jetties, I’ll take customers into trophy speckled trout. This angler is shown with another big sow caught usually throw off the San Bernard River. But, March the back bay and bayous to fish for specks from East Matagorda while wading with Captain Prye. either glow/ is a great trophy trout month in East and reds. When we’re fishing back there, 20 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 21 I’ll usually be throwing Down South in. On the south end of the bay, we’ll start and rough water, but those big redfish redfish during March. Hopedale which won’t be affected by the will be influenced by the condition of Southern Shad in darker colors. But, I’ll seeing some good bird activity over the will be there. When the weather allows Although March offers a variety of river and will likely produce good catches the river. be changing colors once the shrimp move shrimp. Early in the month, it will mostly us to fish there, we always catch plenty of angling action for fishermen leaving out all month regardless. The most consistent redfish action into the lake. Once the shrimp become be small fish under the birds. But, by the big reds around the jetties during March. of Venice, the main draw this month will There will be some redfish moving will be on the outside of the cane breaks the primary food item, I’ll switch to glow/ middle of March you can catch some “From mid-February through March, be fishing offshore for tuna, which will into the marshes in March, but that, too, during March. chartreuse. March is when we start seeing pretty good fish under the birds. we have some pretty good flounder fishing be hanging around the mud lumps in the shrimp come back into the lake. When “We’ll also be catching a lot of redfish as well. And, we’ll start seeing some good tremendous numbers. And, this time of they’re here, glow is the color you want and flounder in March. The reds will flounder fishing during March. I’ll be year, fishermen can expect to not only to throw. still be on the banks in March. Just like working the points and eddies and bayous catch lots of tuna, but also some rather “Really, the trigger is the warmer February, the reds will be on the drops along the Louisiana shore and using glow/ large fish. weather. Once it starts to warm up, the against the shorelines over shell. Plus, chartreuse Southern Shad coated in Pro- March is the month when most of shrimp will be back in the lake. The tide those big redfish will start showing up Cure gel. Louisiana’s record fish are caught, so the also plays a role - if we have a good, strong around the jetties. We can’t always fish the “I’ll also be using that same bait, potential for big fish certainly exists. In incoming tide, it will push those shrimp jetties in March because of the high wind fishing the drops along the Sabine channel. fact, most of the fish on the lumps in I’ll find areas where four feet drops to 10 March are over 100 pounds, with 200 feet and fish there for both flounder and pounders being a real possibility. trout.” March is also a great month for wahoo, which will also be thick around the lumps. Like the tuna, the wahoo run big in March, averaging around 50 pounds with 95 to LOUISIANA COAST 100 pound fish being common catches. Fishermen wanting to stay inshore will need to pay attention to the condition of the Mississippi River in March. The water level, salinity and temperature of the river water is most affected by the amount of snow melt and Photo courtesy Tracy Hughes runoff up north. During the spring months the Louisiana shoreline around the clam beds will hold fish says If the river is in good condition, Captain Randy Foreman. Here Vastine Hughes shows that pattern worked for him on some nice anglers can expect good trout fishing with Sabine Lake redfish. solid specks. Anglers wishing to play it safe should target areas like the oyster bars around Big trout will still be the main attraction on Lake Calcasieu during March. Fishermen looking for sow specks should concentrate on the shorelines – particularly soft-bottom shorelines – while throwing slow-sinking baits and topwater plugs. The warmer the day, the more productive surface offerings will be. As the days get warmer as the month wears on, limits of trout will become much more commonplace as well. Fishermen looking to box numbers of keeper specks should concentrate on the reefs. When seeking school-size specks, soft-plastics and shrimp are usually the best bets for collecting a limit of specks during spring on Lake Calcasieu. However, trout won’t be the only option for Big Lake fishermen this month. Good numbers of redfish will be found throughout the south end of Calcasieu

during March. The majority of the redfish Photo by Nate Skinner will be found along the shorelines in knee March is a time when Lake Calctsieu starts to waist-deep water. to turn on and give increased numbers of However, there will also be plenty of quality speckled trout. Captain Nick Poe of reds around the weirs. A variety of soft- Big Lake Guide Service shows off a nice Big plastic lures and natural baits will tempt Lake speck that hit a Corky.

22 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 23 GUNS ‘N STUFF | Harold Gunn

What Was HOT at S.H.O.T. 2016 Top FlighT

Winchester’s 150th Commemorative Model 1873. spade-style checkering. Suggested Retail, $2,669.99. At SHOT Browning was proud to shim adjustable for length of pull, cast and A Commemorative Model 70 bolt- announce the return of the legendary drop. Barrel lengths are 26 and 28 inches action rifle will be available in .270 Win. “Sweet Sixteen.” A short while back they and this gem comes with three Invector Hunting and has all of the Super Grade accents brought back the beloved “hump back” chokes and all in an AMS hard case. Preserve since 1989 and more for $2,069.99. The beautifully shotgun in the form of the A5 with a more Some may ask, “Why a sixteen gauge?” Browning’s new A-5 “Sweet Sixteen.” embellished Commemorative Model 101 graceful profile. Now they have the guts to Friends, while the most popular gauge for over/under 12-guage shotgun is a value at build an A5 in 16-gauge. shotguns in the colonies has long been the Pheasant The 2016 Shooting Hunting Outdoor cap. The deeply polished, full octagon $3,069.99 as this desirable classic is now This sleek smooth handling automatic twelve — for Europe and the U.K. it has Trade Show, known fondly as the S.H.O.T. 24-inch barrel has a gold barrel band and made in Belgium. These are collectables, is built on a smaller, lighter receiver built longer been the sixteen. Chukar Show, enjoyed the second highest additional engraving on the top flat. It is keepers and most of all shooters, because of a strong, lightweight aluminum alloy The 16 gauge based on weight of Quail attendance in its history, hosting more chambered for the classic .44-40 Win. The that is what they are made for. Space with a weather proof black anodized finish gun and payload down range hits a very than 64,000 industry professionals during stock is Grade V/VI walnut with a satin requires that for more information on for reduced weight at only 5 pounds 12 “sweet” spot between the 12 and 20. Try Dove a four-day run in January. Presented by oil finish. The ladder-style carbine rear these fabulous firearms you visit www. ounces. The recoil operated Kinematic it and you just might like it. Visit www. Waterfowl the industry’s trade group, the National sight with blade front sight are similar to winchesterguns.com. Drive System is designed to function browning.com. Shooting Sports Foundation and held the original plus, the top tang is drilled Joining the celebration is Winchester with any 2 3/4-inch load. The stock and Much more from the SHOT Show at the impossible to navigate Sands and tapped for an optional rear sight. Ammunition (different company) with forearm are gloss finish walnut with 18 soon. Would you believe a revolver from Expo Center, they also attracted a record Suggested retail at press time is $3,329.99. a selection of commemorative boxed lines-per-inch checkering and the stock is Kimber? number of buyers. The 150th Commemorative Model cartridges. They are offering .270 Win, .30- Attitude was good as sales were high, 1873 lever-action rifle is also offered in 30 Win, .44-40 Win, and for waterfowlers but the elephant in the room was what 44-40 Win. caliber with all of the Model 12-gauge, 3-inch shells with No. 2 steel the hell is the government going to try 1866 features including Ulrich style shot. They say other loads will be offered and pull next. At his annual State of the engraving, fancy walnut stock and barrel during the year. I suggest shoot the ammo Industry Dinner speech NSSF President, treatment. Besides being a different model and save the box. Steve Sanetti summed it up with, “We meet the differences are the deep relief scroll New for 2016, Winchester offers the tonight at the very beginning of a crucial engraving with gold embellishments are M-22 Subsonic .22 Long Rifle. Features election year—for our industry and our on a silver nitride finish to the metal for are subsonic velocity with both pistols nation. ... We have to face the fact that our a gorgeous contrast and the stock and and rifles with lower noise levels whether industry is being blamed, and attacked, forearm have classic cut checkering. using a suppressor or not. They promise and pilloried unfairly by politicians, The barrel has an adjustable rear semi- reliable functioning in semi-automatic media and agenda-driven social engineers buckhorn sight and a Marble Arms gold firearms accomplished by the use of a seeking a convenient scapegoat for the bead on the front. Standard with this 45-grain black plated lead round nose Day Hunts result of policies which, ironically, they model is a tang mounted Marble rear bullet and a clean burning powder for Guided and themselves have championed. So, ladies peep sight. reduced muzzle flash. Winchester Ammunition have Unguided Hunts and gentlemen, the state of our industry is, At the invitational NSSF released a 150 Anniversary lineup and must be throughout the year — alert.” Day at the Range prior to the of specially boxed ammunition. Sporting Clays Now let’s look at some new stuff. opening of S.H.O.T. I had the The author suggests shooting the Tower Shoots ammo and saving the box as a The most beautiful and highly fondled great pleasure of shooting collectible. Annual Memberships firearms at the show were created to the Model 1873. At 50 yards Full Service Facility celebrate the 150th anniversary of standing on my hind legs like the Winchester Brand by Winchester a man I rang a dinger five out Corporate Events Repeating Arms. Ranking by model of six shots. The action was number the first of these limited edition smooth as Nutella. M.S.R.P. is firearms is the Commemorative Model $3,329.99 1866 “Yellow Boy” lever-action rifle. The The 150th Commemorative “Yellow Boy” was the first firearm to Model 94 lever-action rifle has carry the Winchester name. The beautiful the same features, engravings; polished brass frame features some of the barrel style, length and sights most authentic Ulrich-style engraving as the Model 1873. As we ever offered on a factory Model 1866 and would expect it is offered in Winchester Ammunition remembers waterfowl hunters www.topflighthunting.com this engraving continues on the lifter, 30-30 Win. The stock and with its 150 Anniversary packaging of 12 gauge #2 shot Columbus TX lever, crescent buttplate, and forearm forearm feature classic cut shells. (979) 732-9196 24 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 25 SALTWATER JOURNAL | Mark Sosin plus the fly line. Keep You can turn a reel handle faster with in mind that braid is your primary hand and longer without The Light Wand thinner than Dacron excessive fatigue. for the same breaking Personal preference holds the decision strength, so you can fit whether you use a direct drive reel (the more of it on the reel. handle turns backward when the line Anglers constantly comes off the spool) or an anti-reverse Saltwater fly fishing fuels its own The key in the salt question the wisdom model (the handle remains stationary). addiction. Not only does it add a new lies in minimizing of casting with the For smaller fish requiring a light drag, a and challenging dimension to the sport, false casts and right hand (or left direct drive reel should be your choice. but it helps to increase your knowledge getting the fly to hand) and then The advantage of direct drive on any of fish behavior. When you are fly fishing the fish quickly, or transferring the rod to size reel is that you know that line is for trout, salmon, or other species in a when blind casting, the other hand so they slipping off the spool when the handle stream, you usually have ample time to covering as much can reel with their is turning backward and that you are contemplate the situation, change flies water as possible. primary hand. There’s recovering line when you turn the handle. if necessary, and try several different The repeated a growing trend If you intend to do a lot of fly fishing approaches. surges of a today to cast with the for big fish, one of the sophisticated, Even a shoreline largemouth bass lays powerful marine primary hand and reel hand-machined reels costing several claim to a feeding station near a log or denizen tethered with the secondary hundred dollars may be a worthwhile under the lip of a lily pad and seldom to fly line, leader, hand. investment. When budget becomes a Photo courtesy Calvin Carter moves. Most marine species are constantly and backing, or the Unless you are serious consideration, buy the best fly rod on the move, probing and prowling task of driving a Buy the best fly rod you can afford. Understand that all graphite Photo courtesy Calvin Carter and other Space Age materials are not the same. Rod performance totally ambidextrous, you can afford and a less expensive fly reel. continuously. Once you spot your quarry, fly into the wind There’s a growing trend today to cast with the primary hand and is based on engineering and design as well as the material. cranking with your A lot of big fish have been taken on basic you only have seconds to get the fly in and in front of a reel with the secondary hand. Unless you are totally ambidextrous, weaker hand is a fly reels. front of it. A second cast often ranks as a cruising fish have cranking with your weaker hand is a mistake. if your tippet is no heavier than 12 or mistake. It may work fine on smaller fish With a fly rod and reel engineered luxury. In situations where blind casting is no parallels in other 15-pound test. Assuming you might want that don’t take much line or fail to put correctly, saltwater fly fishing will become necessary, you must learn to read different forms of angling. To select the right fly the same. Rod performance is based on to use a 20-pound tippet with a 12-weight up a long, arduous battle, but when you a pleasure and an addiction. Chances types of water, areas where fish may hold, rod, let me suggest that you can handle engineering and design as well as the or 13-weight fly rod, the reel of choice hook a big boy, you want to crank with are you will be hooked for life. There are and other sets of meaningful signals. most saltwater assignments with two rods: material. A rod tailored for big fish must should hold at least 250 yards of backing your stronger hand. The reason is simple. worse fates. Predators frequently follow a feeding a 9-weight for smaller fish and a 12-weight boast plenty of reserve power. rhythm tied directly to the stage of the or 13-weight for oversized denizens. You As an example, a properly designed Enjoy this costal getaway while tide and the direction of the flow of water. can always add lighter or heavier fly rods 12-weight fighting tool should be able to letting your investment work Wind can also be a problem on open from that beginning. The typical saltwater lift a five pound weight off the floor with GREAT INVESTMENT/ water, sometimes making casting with any fly rod measures 9-feet. Anything longer six inches of leader extending past the SECOND HOME for you. degree of accuracy difficult. Consider, too, than that often becomes a handicap rather tiptop and still boast reserve power. NORTH PADRE ISLAND that casting a fly in saltwater frequently than an asset. Rods designed specifically In selecting a reel, you must make CANAL FRONT CONDO 3 bdrm, 2 bath condo w/one car demands a bit more distance than in the to fight big fish may be 8 ½ feet long. three decisions: size, left or right hand garage, boat slip and shore power. typical fresh water setting. While the Almost all of the heavier fly rods have an retrieve, and anti-reverse or direct drive. Built 2004, sold fully furnished or trout angler can false cast several times extension butt behind the reel. Saltwater fish run longer distances than unfurnished, kitchen fully-equipped, full before dropping the fly on the water, the A 2-inch butt is standard, since you their freshwater cousins, making a reel’s size stacked washer/dryer, rental history. marine angler does not have that luxury. want the reel as close to your body line capacity much more significant. Quiet top floor corner location with as possible (but Line capacity becomes the common VIEW FROM BALCONY great multi-directional views, shaded not touching it) denominator for size. from afternoon sun, access via stairs and when fighting Almost all saltwater fly reels are elevator. a fish. Longer single action, which translates into one butts cause more revolution of the reel spool for each Near Packery Channel with easy access to upper Laguna Madre and Gulf of Mexico. problems than revolution of the handle. Without the New Schlitterbahn Water Park now open solutions. Be sure benefit of a multiplying reel, the length within 250 yards of front door. the extension butt of line recovered for each revolution is permanently becomes extremely important. The larger 2.5 hours from Houston, 2 hours from Austin, attached and not the diameter of the reel spool, the more 1.5 hours from San Antonio. removable. line you take in with each revolution of Owner/Broker | Show by appointment. Buy the the handle. 14427 Compass Street, Unit A13, best fly rod A basic reel for an 8-weight or 9-weight Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Photo courtesy Calvin Carter you can afford. See on Zillow.com The typical saltwater fly rod measures 9-feet. Anything longer than rod should hold about 200 yards of Call for more information: that often becomes a handicap rather than an asset. A 2-inch butt is Understand that 20-pound braid or Dacron backing plus standard, since you want the reel as close to your body as possible (but all graphite and a weight forward fly line. Bill L. Olson not touching it) when fighting a fish. Longer butts cause more problems other Space Age That should be adequate for most of FULLY-EQUIPPED KITCHEN SPACIOUS LIVING/DINING MASTER BEDROOM 713-957-3997 | 713-201-6970 than solutions. materials are not the smaller species you plan to encounter

26 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 27 Just FISHING | Brian Hughes trophy sized bass. they actively begin the bedding process doesn’t mean that a lizard won’t produce Fishing for spawning bass is greatly they are said to be “spawning”, and after fish, and big ones. When you think Leapin’ Lizards! misunderstood by many anglers. Some they have finished the bedding procedure, Texas-rig fishing, the lizard can be just think that the only way to catch spawners and begin to return to normal activities, as effective as any soft plastic in most is to sight fish beds. And while this is a they are called “post” spawn fish. conditions, especially when pitching into very effective way to catch big bass, there At any rate, all fishing during this thick cover. A slow, dragging retrieve will Spring is a time is an ethical debate about this as well. period involves spawning fish, which can recreate the appearance of a lizard hunting when most bass Many anglers will claim they don’t fish be caught anywhere from against the bank for a meal. Move the bait forward in short anglers are familiar for bedding bass, because they don’t cruise out to 20 feet. If you don’t actively pitch smooth motions, stopping occasionally with the effectiveness the shallows looking for beds onto which onto beds, but instead fish a lizard on a to let the bait “soak”. Try to imagine a live of the plastic lizard. they pitch lures. Texas rig in six feet of water, you’re still bait swimming along through the cover, Made to resemble the Actually, if you fish during the early catching spawning fish. looking for food, and imitate that motion. “Waterdog”, plastic and middle spring months, you fish for I prefer to fish in this fashion simply As stated earlier, lizards come in all lizards are especially spawning bass. As the bass prepare to because the wash from my trolling motor sizes and this makes them great baits adept at catching spawn, they will move toward shallow doesn’t do as much damage to the bedding for catching bass that have moved off to spawning bass. This is water in stages. This may take a day or areas if my boat is in eight or nine feet and structure after completing the spawning due to the bass’ hatred a week, or more. As each fish is a little I’m casting into six feet. Plus I can work regimen. of these voracious little different, all bass don’t spawn at the same an area parallel to the bank and cover A Carolina-rig is commonly used to predators wreaking time. That means that during the spring more water, more efficiently this way. All catch these bass and a 4” or 5” lizard will havoc on fish eggs. A there are fish in all “stages” of the spawn of this is a personal choice of course, and accommodate this rig quite nicely. To live water dog is flat-out for about two months. the lizard remains an excellent choice for maximize the effectiveness of your leader, the top live bait for bass By the way, biologists don’t recognize whatever method you choose. use one of the floating varieties. The on beds, specifically big the “pre” or “post” spawn as separate But there’s more to a lizard than just drop-shot fan can also take advantage of bass. periods of the spawn. Bass are either springtime fishing. Many anglers will the lizard by dropping down to 4”or even Waterdog is the spawning or not. Those terms were coined switch to craw baits or worms once the three inch selections. most common name by fishermen to differentiate the behavior spawn has ended. In many cases it’s just When all is said and done the plastic for the aquatic larva of of bass during the entire timeline of the habit. After all, the plastic worm is the lizard is definitely a year-round bait, so the tiger salamander spawn. number one fish catcher of all time, and when you start this season with a lizard, (Ambystoma tigrinum), As they move toward the shallows they rightfully so, BUT… keep him handy throughout. He just may a large salamander. The Left to right these lizards are a Yamamoto Custom Baits 5”, Spike-It, and Yamamoto Custom Baits 6”. are said to be in “pre” spawn mode, when Just because the season changes surprise you with the gift of a big bass. adult salamander will burrow underground, but return to the fishermen. It was particularly popular in ‘em, weighted, for shallow water bedding water to lay eggs. Texas, where Lake Tyler anglers would bass, or I’ll fish them weightless over the Salamanders also spawn in early remove the three pre-attached hooks, put top,” Orvy says. spring, putting their larvae in direct one hook into the head of the bait and Of course, Fliptail is not the only contact with spawning bass, and their rotate the point to be buried in the body manufacturer of lizard baits, and all are nests. of the lure. Thus, the birth of the Texas rig. effective to one degree or another. The The eggs hatch in about two weeks. Shortly after that, the folks at Fliptail appearance of a salamander-style lure in They will grow rapidly to several inches. Lures were credited with producing the the area of a spawning bass triggers an Eventually, usually during summer, the first plastic lizard. Still in business today, almost irresistible urge to strike. This dogs transform into adults that live on Fliptail produces one of the most effective response is not to eat, but to remove the land. The most noticeable change is lizards for use during the spawn. offending creature from the bedding area. the loss of external gills that stick out While the company has been through This will play into the savvy anglers hand like feathery plumes (some plastics many changes over the years, the Fliptail if he plays his cards right. manufacturers will incorporate these gills Floating Lizard remains a mainstay of the The plastic lizard comes in countless into their lure). company. Designed to float a 4/0 hook on sizes and colors, with differing legs, feet Using the live versions of these little the surface, a floater slowly swimming and tails. The more curl there is to the critters as bait during the spawn is over bedding grounds will produce heart- legs and tails, the more water the bait grounds for charges of treason in most stopping strikes, and has proven to catch will displace and therefore the more bass camps. While I don’t believe I have a big bass as well. commotion it makes under the water. right to tell any angler what LEGAL means Orvy Partee, Fliptails owner says, “You Sometimes this is a good thing, and then they may use to catch fish, I’ve seen other won’t find a better springtime lure for big again sometimes the fish prefer a more anglers nearly come to blows on the water, bass. I’ve sold these baits all over the south reserved approach. arguing about the ethics of using such and they work everywhere. As for size, your end goal would be the tactics. So, enter the plastic lizard. You’ve got to go a long way to beat criteria I would use to select the baits to The plastic lizard has been around for the Fliptail lizard” Many fish in the 12-14 fish. If you just want to catch bass, use the many years. Back in the fifties, Nick Crème pound class have been caught on Fliptail standard six inch baits. For bigger bass, I’d made a big splash in the fishing industry Floating Lizards and you can fish them use a longer, and fatter, bait. But make no when he introduced the plastic worm to in a variety of ways. “I mostly Texas-rig mistake, any lizard is capable of catching The pink lizard is a Fliptail Floating Lizard. The blue colored bait on the right is an E2 Baits Bobtail Lizard

28 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 29 in various conditions, usually pops into mind of Texas pluggers fishermen must first have when they think about making noise is FISH-ATTRACTING a good understanding for using topwater plugs. Most Texas inshore how various lures and fishermen rely on dog-walking plugs like accessories emit sound and Badonk-A-Donks, She Dogs, Top Dogs, how water and wind can Skitterwalks, Super Spooks or Unfair affect the amount of noise Lures Dawg Walker to make surface noise necessary to attract fish. and commotion, however, not all of these There are essentially baits produce the same amount of sound. two conditions that require Some are fitted with extremely loud fishermen to use sound to rattle chambers while other rely almost attract fish. Rough water is exclusively on splashy movement to one, as surface disturbance make sound. Anglers need to consider the such as wind-driven waves conditions when choosing a dog-walking cause noise. The amount plug – the rougher and dirtier they water, Figure out the right combination to catch of noise caused will vary the more noise they will need to make. plenty of fish this spring. based on how much the But, regardless of model, any of these baits water is moving – a small can be worked in a “sloppy” manner to Story and photography by Danno Wise riffle makes much less create even more noise and splash. noise than a cresting Although they are used much less whitecap. frequently in Texas waters, chuggers, Don’t underestimate poppers are also good choices in dirty the amount of noise the water. Prop-baits such as the MirrOlure choppy bay surface creates. MirrOprop and Smithwick Devil’s Horse In order to be heard above can be used in a variety of conditions, as the din, fishermen must the amount of noise they create can be On windy days along the middle and lower coast when redfish use lures that exceed the varied by changing the manner in which move up on shallow flats to feed some sort of noise or vibration noise being made by they are retrieved. Poppers and chuggers producing lure or combination will catch fish when the water is moving wind and water. like the, MirrOlure Pop-A-Dog and Poppa off color . The rougher the water, the Mullet, Storm Chug Bug and Rebel Pop ‘R more noise is necessary to can also be retrieved in a noise-generating with. However, each of these incarnations draw attention to lures and baits. manner that is effective on windy, dirty of the modest popping cork have the same Murky water is the other condition water days, as well as days when there is purpose – as do dozens of hard and soft- that requires either sound or vibration to less surface disturbance. plastic artificial lures – to produce just help fish locate lures and baits. Any time In deeper bays, inshore anglers are the right amount of sound to attract fish. visibility is reduced fish are forced to rely well-advised to take a page from the bass Given the often strong winds of on senses other than sight. Most often, fisherman’s handbook and thrown lipless spring, more often than not coastal bays this means “feeling” vibration or “hearing” crankbaits. The venerable Rat-L-Trap, as experience choppy waters. Any surface sound produced by disturbance causes noise and, quite often, lures and baits in results in lower visibility. Each of these order to find them. conditions makes it more difficult for In clear water, the fish to locate baits and lures. As a result, slightest noise can fishermen often resort to sound in order send fish scurrying. to aid the fish in finding their baits. However, in muddy However, figuring out the right noise water, fish are much combination can be a little trickier than less sensitive to it sounds. When using noise-producing sound. In fact, when lures or accessories, anglers have to be visibility is reduced, careful. After all the goal is to alert, not sound produced by remember as a kid in the 70s seeing models made their way onto the shelves. Texas coast. alarm, nearby fish. Anglers must choose corks or lures often foam trays filled with popping Shortly after that, a tiny round rattle Over the decades since, the simple lures, corks, rattles and other noise draw fish toward Icorks – already a staple of Texas bead appeared in the face of a few popping cork has evolved, to say the producing items based on the prevailing them. trout fishermen at that time. Back then, popping corks. The bead didn’t produce least. Popping corks are now available conditions. If too little noise or vibration Knowing when your options were limited to length and much sound. But, if you shook the cork in a variety of sizes, shapes, and noise is produced for the given conditions, the to produce sound is whether the drab green conical, cup-faced vigorously (and there was no wind and producing capabilities. Some modern lure or bait may simply go unnoticed. one thing, knowing model was weighted or unweighted (I no one was talking), you could hear the rattling corks has a soft cadence while If too much noise is produced, any how to produce it preferred weighted). Some years later, faint click emitted from the cork. “Rattling others sound more akin to a Mexican nearby fish will likely be spooked. In is quite another. Flounder will respond to in-line sound producing rattles worked a few bright yellow (or chartreuse) Corks” had made their appearance on the maraca than something you would fish order to select the proper level of sound The first thing that slowly over bay bottoms.

30 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 31 well as models such as the Bomber Super Pogie and Cordell Spot can produce good results in off-color water so long as there is adequate water depth in which to work these fast sinking plugs. Although plugs are the first thing to come to mind when looking for “noisy” artificial lures, some soft-plastics also produce plenty of fish-attracting vibration to be effective in dirty water. Anglers throwing soft-plastics should pick a bait with a paddle-style tail which will emit vibration as it moves through the water, as opposed to straight-tail baits which rely purely on visual stimulation to attract strikes. Larger baits like the 5-inch Egret Wedge Tail Mullet and 4-inch DOA Paddle tail soft plastic baits create increased vibration, compared to rat tail baits, as they are CAL Shad Tail will displace more water retrieved. and cause more vibration than smaller paddletail plastics. But, the size of the rattles can be fitted onto the line about Instead, fishermen usually opt for one of bait and the amount of vibration caused six to eight inches above the hook or lure. a number of wire-through rattling floats. should be adjusted based on the water Inline rattles come in a variety of sizes and Bombers’ Paradise Popper combines the conditions. In murky, calm water, baits weights, floating and sinking. So, they can cup-face of a traditional popping cork that use their body and a fluttering tail be used while free-lining, fishing bottom with the clacking beads of a wire-through motion to send out vibration, such as rigs, working soft-plastics, or when using float. the DOA Baitbuster, can be extremely the device that we mentioned at the When it’s really rough or the water effective. beginning of this article – the traditional is especially dirty, the Paradise Popper, Of course, not all saltwater fishermen Texas popping cork. By placing a rattle a along with the loud-rattling Alameda- use artificial lures. And, there are a few few inches above a soft-plastic lure, or live style corks and the pre-rigged clacker accessories that can help both natural shrimp or baitfish, fishermen are able to bead/popping cork models are the most bait and artificial lure fishermen produce draw fish closer, so they are able to better effective, as they tend to make not just a sound to draw fish to their offerings. locate the lure or bait. lot of noise, but more than one type of One such device is an inline rattle. These In Texas, when it comes to fish- sound. Each of these floating attractors attractors used by can be used in combination with either coastal fishermen, artificial or natural baits. Placing an inline it all comes back rattler between the cork and lure or bait to the popping (if the rig doesn’t already include one) is a cork, and for great way to add yet another fish attracting good reason. sound for ugly water fishing. Popping corks In shallower or slightly cleaner water, – or the various wire-through cigar floats, such as the noise-producing famous Mansfield Mauler, are a better floats which were choice. spawned from the For those “in-between” times, the original popping wire-through oval floats tend to work best. cork – can Today, the oval wire-through floats are the actually increase most commonly used and, actually, the the effectiveness most versatile of all the models. of both live bait Today’s tackle manufacturers offers and artificial lures such a variety of noise, sound and under rough or vibration producing lures and accessories, murky water anglers are able to adjust to virtually any conditions. water conditions. Traditional So, this spring, when the wind howls cup-faced corks and the water turns rough and dirty, don’t Where the water is deep enough, lipless rattling crank baits are good still work well, stay home, just figure out the right sound choices of sound and vibration making lures that will attract and catch although they are combination and you’re sure to catch fish. rarely seen today. plenty of fish.

32 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 SHED ANTLERS

ome sportsmen enter a state ground by mid-May. That relinquishes deer hunter is the possibility of finding of torpor in March, but for around three months of searching for the antlers of an exceptional buck they Sthe die-hard deer hunter, there sheds in some of the most user-friendly had no idea existed. Such discoveries are are a variety of outdoor activities that climate Texas has to offer. not only exhilarating, they add impetus can be conducted throughout this time The most productive places to search to how hard one hunts the following period, one of which is the search for for shed antlers are on and around grain hunting season. Once a trophy set of the antlers they failed to see on that antlers is discovered, the individual’s particular buck they pursued during confidence level escalates along with the previous hunting season. their desire to hunt even longer As darkness declines during the for sheds, which often leads to the spring, a pea-sized gland located discovery of other bucks. near the center of a deer’s brain One of the major objectives of called the pineal gland reacts to that the serious shed hunter is to find reduction in darkness and sends the antlers belonging to a deer they signals to the pituitary gland to hunted to verify its survival, or to reduce the production of the male come up with a new prospect. But hormone testosterone. As a result, what one must remember is that those antlers, firmly attached to the the discovery of a sure enough big buck’s skull, are jettisoned, and one rack in the spring doesn’t guarantee of Nature’s most incredible events, that its owner will show up in the growing a new set of antlers, begins. same vicinity next hunting season, The nice thing about shed antlers as mature bucks occupy a much is that they are not that difficult larger home range than we originally to locate, but it does require time believed. walking around in an environment I discovered this fact back in seldom visited by a hunter during the the 80s when I along with my close hunting season, thus searching for friend Steve Demarais, then research those calcified appendages represents scientist at Texas Tech University, an excellent excuse to get out and Out-of-the-way water resources are extremely attractive were radio-collaring mature bucks obtain a little exercise to burn off to deer, in turn ideal areas to locate those jettisoned on open range land in Dimmit, a few unwarranted calories while appendages. Webb, and LaSalle Counties. Based learning more about the habitat deer fields, water resources, and protein on the results of our research, spearheaded prefer. feeders. I would venture to say that most by graduate students Matt Pollock and When those ivory-like antlers are cast sheds are found on grain fields and at Don Whittaker, those mature telemetered varies on a geographical basis. It can be as feed stations. bucks entertained an annual home range early as late December in the hill country Obviously, the optimum locations of 3,000 acres. to as late as May in the brush country. I to search for shed antlers are where deer Now 3,000 acres doesn’t sound like have observed on several occasions bucks are most commonly seen during the much until you consider the fact that in hard antler in late May in Dimmit and hunting season, but the antlers found in it is six times the average ranch size in Overcome those off-season, no-deer-hunting blues Webb Counties. But a high percentage of these areas would most likely be those of Texas. And it’s highly likely that the area bucks jettison their headgear during the bucks one is already familiar with. Not covered over the hunting season by most by searching for these calcified appendages. month of March, and 95% of the antlers that this is unproductive, but what makes hunters is probably less than 250 acres. that adorn South Texas bucks are on the shed hunting so attractive to the serious More importantly, the substantial area a Story and photography by Bob Zaiglin

34 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 35 to their same breeding about the habitat. It would be naïve to a huge shed in a food patch is something It has evolved into core area on an annual think that the placement of a deer blind to get excited about. The buck is aware a learning platform basis. I discovered this near where a large shed antler was found of a preferred source of food, and more with every antler fact over the last 11 years would be all that is necessary to harvest importantly knows that does will frequent becoming another while filming uniquely that animal. This is why knowledge of the the area. When it will return and whether piece of valuable identifiable bucks on an surrounding area is vital. Knowledge of it be during the night or day are questions data addressing annual basis in an attempt the trails leading to and from feeding and unanswered, but the most important the deer hunting to decipher any physical bedding areas and where those preferred question would be where to position your puzzle, and the changes that could be escape routes exist add to success. The hunting stand. more pieces of employed to increase the location of a desirable shed is only a One of the ultimate collateral that puzzle they accuracy of aging bucks guarantee that the buck survived the advantages to shed hunting is the physical obtain, the greater on the hoof. In order to previous hunting season and was on exercise it represents, which can only chance they have accomplish this project, the area you hunted, at least during the benefit today’s sedentary hunters. For at success. Shed hunting can be considered an adult Easter egg hunt and enjoyed a large number of bucks spring. No telling where it will be during most hunters, searching for sheds requires by the entire family. must be filmed for many the rut when bucks cast all caution aside much more walking than they perform years, and I have found in pursuit of does. If your lease or ranch throughout the entire hunting season. that relocating them in the is small, it is highly probable that the Some spend most if not all their time Deer frequently visit feeders making such areas ideal for same area during the rut is land you hunt on represents only a small sequestered almost motionless in a blind locating antlers shed in the spring. highly effective. In other portion of that buck’s breeding core area, during the hunting season. Others simply buck covers throughout the year makes it words, if that unique buck is observed in and it is highly probable that it may never high rack their way through the season hard to predict where the owner of those one year during the rut and survives, there set foot on your place during the hunting without ever setting foot into the brush. sheds will show up the following fall, is an excellent chance it will resurface at season. Hunting sheds coerces the individual out that is unless they belong to a buck that the same place the following breeding But looking on the bright side, your into the brush, and by doing so, represents was observed on one’s favorite piece of season. favorite piece of South Texas may be what a physically refreshing outdoor learning hunting turf during the breeding season. So what does this information mean to the owner of those calcified appendages experience in the ultimate classroom. The possibility of seeing the animal those of us out there searching for sheds? calls home during the rut. More importantly, shed hunting is again, barring any natural mortality, Knowing that a mature buck covers a Patterning bucks is a complicated an event the entire family can enjoy, is extremely good. The fact is, bucks substantial amount of real estate means process as some deer occupy isolated oftentimes becoming an annual event demonstrate a strong affinity to return that we need to acquire more knowledge areas while others encompass a much sometimes referred to as an adult Easter larger piece of real estate. So don’t be egg hunt. disillusioned into believing that once a But for the extreme deer hunter, buck is known to have visited your favorite shed hunting has become more than piece of deer turf it will always be there. another enjoyable outdoor experience. The same can be said about observing deer from the air. I have conducted aerial game surveys on thousands of acres throughout South Texas in October, viewing hundreds of incredible bucks over the years, but rarely have I relocated those wraiths during the deer hunting season two months later. You can imagine the difficulty of relocating the owner of those sheds discovered in March some eight months prior to the hunting season. But before you get discouraged, it has been done upon occasion, and when it does occur, it’s the ultimate outdoor rush. Where that particular antler is found it is often indicative of the probability of seeing its owner again during the following hunting season. Finding a shed antler while randomly walking in the brush is one thing, but locating a huge shed antler on a food plot is another. Mature bucks frequent oat patches, and the larger the One of the priorities of searching for a shed oat patch, the more attractive it is to those antler is the verification of the animal one older, often reclusive animals. The point has hunted has survived the gauntlet of I’m trying to make is that the discovery of another grueling rut.

36 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 37 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71 fishing patterns hinging heavily on water through February it could be pretty tough. going to be doing a lot of flipping tight to levels. When asked what he thinks those The main key on this lake is finding clear willows and buck brush this spring. Lake Roundup patterns will be, local fisheries biologist water.” “It’s going to be good,” says fishing and tournament angler Todd Driscoll says To do that, Dearman suggests looking guide Tommy Martin of Hemphill. he thinks ‘Rayburn’s willow bushes and in the backs of creeks, inlets and drains “Anglers can pretty much pick their buck brush will play a key role. that are somewhat protected from the poison because there is going to be a flats that offer plenty of cover such as of hungry mouths to feed. “It’s definitely going to put the fish inflow of the Trinity River. These types of lot of different stuff working. Flipping bushes, stumps and lay downs. One of the most popular fun options on the bank, and more than likely the areas will be prone to clear the quickest. the bushes with jigs and creature baits is EAST TEXAS Anglers can catch fish casting small jigs is the white bass spawning run, which bushes,” he said. “That’s going to leave Other good options on Livingston are definitely going to be a big deal.” or Roadrunners, but Terpe is most fond annually sends thousands of the hard anglers with a couple of options. They soaking fresh cut shad for big blue cat and Isolated bushes situated on main of using a small cork to suspend his bait hitting sport fish finning their way up the can either get in the bushes and flip with channel cat or heading up the Trinity to lake and secondary points will definitely as it moves through the shallows. Neches River to create the next generation jigs and creature baits, or work the outer get in on the spring white bass run. The be worth a look, as will those bushes NACOGDOCHES — March is the of white bass for anglers to catch. The perimeters of the brush with weightless bite should be strong on both counts, located along drains and channels in close bewitching month big bass at Lake Nac action can be fast and furious at times Senkos and Texas rigged lizards. Both are particularly the white bass. proximity to spawning flats. and crunch time for anglers who like — so fast that it isn’t uncommon to sack productive ways to fish.” The best fishing typically takes place Martin also pointed to underwater to chase them. If you’re after a career up a 25-fish limit in as many casts when Another potential player will be 20-30 miles upstream from the bottleneck milfoil beds, lily pad stubble and torpedo bass or simply looking for a quality bass you find one of those magical sweet spots. shoreline torpedo grass (hay grass). The in the vicinity of the old Lock and Dam grassbeds as primo shallow cover for fishing experience, this is one pond worth Assorted baits will get you bit, but grass is most abundant south of the at the State Highway 7 crossing. There, holding bass throughout the next 30-60 checking out. none work better than a small 1/4 ounce Highway 147 Bridge. anglers can fish from shore or access the days. Just be sure to remember the lake’s Roadrunner. Color combinations of Once spawning gets underway, anglers main river via a trolley launch at the Lock “Spinnerbaits, Chatterbaits, square By Matt Williams restrictive limit. Lake Nacogdoches is white, pink and chartreuse always yield can look for the fish to set up camp on the N’ Dam bait shop. The nearest public bills and swim baits will all work really one of the few lakes in the state that is the most consistent results. back sides of the grass. Casting around the ramp is farther south at the Highway 21 well until the fish start getting on beds,” CONROE — March is when Lake governed by a 16 inch maximum length Just so you know, fishing up the outside edges could also be productive. crossing. Martin says. “Once that happens, you need Conroe fishing guide Butch Terpe gets his limit. All fish 16 inches or longer must be Neches is primarily a flat bottom affair. Driscoll says there will also be good TOLEDO BEND — Toledo Bend was to put the moving baits down and pick up game face on and heads to the shallows. released under this regulation, unless the In other words, you should use a boat numbers of pre-spawn fish that are still about nine inches above pool and more a Senko or light Texas rig — something “March is a great month to be on water, fish is a potential candidate for the state’s that allows you to penetrate tight spots staged along drainages and secondary water was rolling in as of this writing, so you can fish really slow. If the water is clear especially if you are a bass fisherman,” says ShareLunker program. cluttered with brush without worry of points in mid-range depths of 8-12 feet. it is almost a certainty bass anglers are enough you’ll be able to sight fish. If not, Terpe. “There are going to be a bunch of Bass anglers can look for a high tearing stuff up. He recommends targeting these fish with fish shallow. They may not be spawning percentage of the fish to be gravitating Lake Palestine also produces some Carolina rigs, football jigs and crank baits. yet, but it won’t be long. They will towards shallow spawning flats and outstanding fishing for black bass. If this Something else worth checking out definitely be up there prowling around. backwater pockets by way of creeks and March is like most, there will be fish in all is any new growth hydrilla you can find. If you are after a big Conroe bass, March ditches during the early days of the month. stages of the spawn, depending on the area The grass is likely to be growing only a few is one of the top months to catch one.” This is when fishing around channel of the lake up for discussion. feet off bottom, but it could hold fish like Terpe suggests targeting wind swings, points and secondary points Up north, fishing guide Ricky a magnet at times. protected pockets and creeks located near deeper water can pay off big time, Vandergriff typically labels areas like Driscoll says crappie fishermen can along the lake’s northwestern shore during especially if there is some grass (hydrilla Cade’s Lake, Kickapoo Creek, Old Folks collect some fast limits if they get into the early part of the month. The pockets or coon tail) or lily pad stubble in the area. Playground and the flats adjacent to the the right area this time of year, but you’ll are likely to be a few degrees warmer Good baits to throw include a Rat-L- Neches River as high percentage areas. need to cover plenty of water to score. than other areas, and that can make huge Trap, square bill crank bait, spinnerbait He recommends targeting drainages Depending on what the water level is difference when it come to attracting the or Chatterbait. A suspending jerk bait and channel breaks in these areas with finding fish could be akin to finding a first wave of big females. or swim bait also will get you bit if the soft jerk baits, bladed jigs and Texas rig needle in haystack. Anytime is a good time to go gunning water is clear. lizards. Sight fishing could be a player if The upper reaches of the Angelina for big bass on Conroe, but Terpe thinks Once water temperatures begin to the water is clear. Otherwise, it will be all always produces some outstanding catches the odds are best during warming trends stabilize around 60 degrees is when blind casting. this time of year, as do the upper reaches after 2-3 days of big sun to heat up the big numbers of fish will commit to the The guide says similar patterns also of major and secondary creeks up and surface temps. The guide says he will shallows, pair with males and carry out will be in progress down south during the down the lake. Best bait choice are live spend the majority of his time this month the spawning process. Sight fishing for latter part of the month in the backs of shiners and jigs. probing water that is six feet deep or fish on beds can be a productive, and fun secondary and major creeks. Boathouses LIVINGSTON — Lake Livingston came less with slow moving baits like a Texas way to fish, but only if the water is clear. with brush also should be holding some into the New Year in pretty sorry shape. As rigged lizard or worm. He pointed to a Otherwise, the best bet will be to move fish. of this writing the lake was more than a Chatterbait is another good choice. quietly through shallow spawning flats Crappie? Look for papermouths to foot high and colored like chocolate milk. “The main thing to do is cover and blind cast ahead of the boat with a be moving into some of the same areas Local fishing guide Randy Dearman water and focus on key areas with good weightless Senko or a Texas-rigged lizard. as bass. Vandergriff says you can catch says March fishing quality will hinge spawning flats,” he said. “Lewis, Caney and At times, a soft plastic buzz frog or buzz them on live shiners or jigs fished beneath heavily on water clarity. If the lake stays Atkins are some of my favorite creeks.” bait can bring out the bully in big females a slip cork or by fan casting with a jig and muddy anglers can count on a pretty In addition to bass, Terpe says anglers that are guarding beds. ultralight tackle. tough bite. can look for crappie to be moving onto PALESTINE — Lake Palestine brings a SAM RAYBURN — March is when the “We had really wet fall and January spawning flats this month, as well. He full plate of great options to the table in majority of the black bass and crappie winter and we had a lot of water rolling suggests targeting shallow shorelines and March and that means there will be plenty move shallow to spawn with viable in,” Dearman said. “If that continued

38 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 39 you’ll just need to get on those flats and in last years’ spawn had plenty of hiding bubble gum and merthiolate colors. and Doctors creeks, looking for shallow of the laydowns, “I like the back of Twin, unwillingness of the fish to bite. blind cast. If you see hole in the torpedo places and plenty of food so the survival TAWAKONI — Catfish guide Larry cover and into the willows once water Lacey, Clear, Lynn and Kings Creeks. “What’s happening is the fish are grass, cast to it. There’s a good chance rates should have soared — meaning lots Thomas spent some quality time sharing temps reach 60’s. “That triggers the We’re just looking for brush or cover in down deeper, 20-30 feet deep, in 40 -45 there may be a bed there.” of fish in our lakes. with me the secrets to big blue cats on sandies and the crappie to begin the the shallows.” feet of water,” Rollins said. “They aren’t March also can a good month to target So what is the angler to do? Well, go Tawakoni in March. “The bigger fish, (50- spawning process. Which makes it a fine While the riprap and rocks around summertime schooling fish, and they spawning crappie in the backs of major fishing of course. 70 lbs.) start to spawn around the first of time to be on Cooper Lake. the bridges were a good choice during the won’t come up that far for a bait, so you and secondary creeks and white bass up FORK — Texas’ premiere big bass March,” he said, “Followed by 3-10 pound CADDO — Caddo bass in March will drought, Rollins says a full lake is going to have to go to them.” the Sabine River. According to fishing lake sees a lot of anglers in any month, fish in the middle of the month.” respond to a V&M 6 ½” Lizzie lizard. Rig put most of the fish in the creeks this year. You do this either vertically with a slab guide Stephen Johnston, the crappie but March may top them all. According When asked how to catch these fish he them Texas style, or weightless. You can Rock fisherman may find tough going. or spoon, yo-yoing the bait just above fishing is always best when the water is to guide Mark Stevenson, not only do remarked, “Side scan is wonderful!” He also use a lightweight with a Senko or Early in the month sandies will also their heads, or you can cast a Sassy Shad clear. Meanwhile, the white bass fishing all the creeks have anglers, but, “All the suggested you look as shallow as your boat V&M Pork Shad. Guide Paul Keith likes be using the creeks, while later you’ll find body on a ¾ oz. jighead out as far as you is generally best when the river is flowing creeks have fish in them — Mustang, will go, “Two to three feet or less. You may the standard colors in soft plastics. “My them on windy, main lake points. “Early can, count it down to the fish and reel it within in its banks rather than at flood Little Mustang, Bell Branch, Williams, see the fins sticking up out of the water.” favorite colors include watermelon/red, in the month I’ll hunt from the very back slowly through the middle of the fish. stage. This prevents the bass from being Dale, Ray, Little Caney, we’ll have fish all Anchor your boat and put out rods in black/blue and June Bug,” he says. to the front of those same creeks, with You’ll be using your electronics to able to disperse in the adjacent woods and over the lake.” every direction. “I’ll put out as many as 15 If you want to pitch and flip, the 1/2 oz. either the crappie jigs or a Roadrunner, decide how deep the fish are holding. If brush, where they can scatter and become Look for water to hit 55-58 degrees, rods at a time,” Larry said. “Fish close to jig or a 3/8oz. Gary Yamamoto Kreature again going bigger if the water is muddy, you’re not well versed at reading your difficult to find. and stay in eight feet or less if you just timber and creeks, and boaters should go will do the trick. “We will look to the which is likely in the spring,” he explained. “fishfinder” bigcrappie.com can help want to catch fish. But if you want a big as far as they can up those creeks.” Cypress trees in March,” said Keith. “One He also keeps a ½ oz. Sassy Shad ready with that. fish, be ready to fish for one bite a day. Fresh shad is the preferred bait, NOT to three feet of water in the trees, with in case they find some big hybrid stripers “We get a number of trips every year “Look in 10 to 15 feet, on secondary points frozen. He fishes with a modified Carolina underwater hydrilla is perfect.” in the creeks. “It happens more than you where one of us will actually go out near a channel,” Stevenson suggested. “I rig, using a weight, the hook and a bobber, Another good plan is to cover a lot of might think,” he suggested. “Be sure to rig on a clients boat and show them what NORTH TEXAS like the suspending jerkbait like a Rogue all on a three way swivel. The rig is set with water with ½ oz. Lightnin’ Blade and a these on a little heavier rod/line combo, things look like on their electronics,” he or Long A, gold and orange on a cloudy the bobber on top, bait in the middle and 1/2oz V&M SWIM JIG around the tress or you’ll get busted off!” confessed “We can show them roadbeds, day and Tennessee Shad on a sunny day. weight on bottom. Mid-March to mid- at creek edges. “Use jigs in black/blue Later in the month when the sandies old bridges, brush, humps schooling fish, I also like a Johnson spinnerbait with April is the time for eater fish in the 5-15 and spinnerbaits in chartreuse, white or move to the points the birds will give away even the thermocline if they come out at double willowleaf blades in chartreuse/ lbs. range. a combo, around the trees,” suggested their location. Often, novice anglers will the right time of year for that.” white or red shad. And don’t forget to According to Thomas, non-boaters Paul. With the very soft bottom Caddo throw baits that are designed to work in March is the beginning of the fishing double back over the area with a lizard in should NOT be trying to cast as far as has, you’ll see bass spawning on the sides the upper portion of the water column, year for a lot of us. And it looks it is going blue flake, black/blue or green pumpkin possible off the bank, “Keep quiet, and of the trees and laydowns. only to come away frustrated at the to be a very good year indeed. and a 1/8oz. weight, or use a shaky head cast out about 10 feet off the bank. Look “You can also use a spinnerbait as a with a Senko in watermelon or pumpkin/ to keep your bait near weeds or grass.” search bait,” he said. “When you catch a purple. Of course this could change due spring few, slow down and go back over the area “Also look for isolated patches of weather and possible high water levels. with soft plastics.” Look to the Old Folks By Brian Hughes hydrilla,” he continued. “They’ll probably COOPER — When I spoke with Tony Playground, Jeens Bayou and Big Green be hard to find, but when you do fish them Parker about Cooper he told me the lake areas for the hottest action. March is the beginning of a new season often throughout the day.” While they may was a little high (2’) and muddy. “Fishing CEDAR CREEK — Cedar Creek will see for me. I know January is technically not produce each time you check them, has been terrible over the last couple of a lot of action in March. Along with bass the beginning of the New Year and that they can produce that one big fish you’re months,” he said. “Muddy, cold water has fishermen, a lot of the folks with summer February is usually when the sand bass run looking for. been giving us fits. If good fortune shines homes on the lake will make their first trip and big cat season hits its stride. February Remember that fish will be looking on Cooper this spring, and we don’t get of the year to the lake during spring break. can be brutal however, with the worst to spawn in March and that means you too much rain, the lake should clear up These folks don’t really care about species, weather of the year in north Texas just a should start in the back of the larger nicely by March.” they just want to catch a few fish. norther away. Snow, ice and freezing rain creeks and keep your baits in 10 feet of Asked what that will do to fishing he Crappie and sand bass are the usually make one last gasp appearance in water and less. “As the day warms, and the responded, “Hybrids will be in shallow perfect quarry for them. Veteran guide that month, and that tends to set things water with it, bass will move up shallow,” water off main lake and windy points. and crappie expert Chuck Rollins at back a week or so. Including me. Stevenson stated. “This can happen in They look for a hard bottom, and current, bigcrappie.com will accommodate both A good friend once said, I’m just not just a couple of hours on some days so in order to spawn.” pursuits. “By early March, crappie have that mad at ‘em anymore.” That sums up just keep at it. You can fish a bank before Tony searches these spots with a ½ started their transition to shallow water,” my attitude towards fishing in the cold, lunch and get nothing, and come back oz. jighead, rigged with a 4” Sassy Shad he said. “Get in the creeks and toss jigs ice and rain during February. after you eat and catch several cruising in chartreuse. “Don’t forget to scan the into laydowns. The jigs we use are 1/8 oz. In contrast, March will see just about bass, and maybe even catch that lunker!” humps on the lake with your electronics,” jigs in chartreuse, unless we want the bait EVERYTHING kick into a new gear. Early Since you are trying to cover a lot of he offered. “Many of these will be shallow to fall really slow, in which case we switch in the month blues and sandies are still water, try a Rat-L-Trap in red to locate enough for spawning, and the wind will to 1/16 ounce.” Shades of green, white and active. Crappie usually begin the spawning active fish. “The trap is the finest search provide the current the fish need. Cast yellow make up the color choices. routine, bass are right behind, and if it bait ever made,” declared Stevenson . out across the hump or point and reel They’ll spend most of the month warms enough you may even see the brim One of his favorite spring rigs is a mini- back fast enough to keep your bait off between one and six feet of water, rarely species firing off by the end of the month. Carolina rigged Kreature, with an 18 inch the bottom.” fishing deeper than 10 feet. Full lake levels With the full lakes due to last years’ leader and ¼ -5/16 oz. weight. And just Crappie fishermen will find the mean you’ll want to work as far back into rain, fishing should be superb. Fry hatched to be different, every now and then try crappie moving into areas like No-name the creeks as you can, and work every side

40 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 41 Set to Get WET Story and photography by Robert Sloan

ne thing you can say about The good, bad and ugly of wade Texas fishermen is that a fishing while doing it right. Owhole lot of us like to wade. It’s a form of pure escape, adventure and one sure fire way to go one on one with trout and reds. But it’s also a way to find out what is on bottom, where there are hidden guts and isolated shell reefs. If you’re not a wade fisherman you are definitely missing out on an excellent angling experience. But, then again you might be smarter than those of us that get out of a perfectly fine boat. One thing that I’ve noticed with over five decades of saltwater fishing is that Wade fishermen line up in a “skirmish line” feeling the bottom with their feet as they cover productive waters looking for a big bite. Texas anglers like to wade fish a lot more than people in other coastal states. For Wading is an angling technique that sane anglers. Conversely, some of the James Plaag. We caught trout like there example, wade fishing just about doesn’t will definitely produce more bites, than best big trout producing water right was no tomorrow. The cove we were exist along the coast of Louisiana and on drift fishing from a boat – sometimes. now, is soft mud and shell – which by wading was soft boot sucking mud. Plus, up to Florida. For example, wade fishing rules at Port most standards is the worst bottom to we were about chest deep with water The first time I saw people wading O’Connor, located on the middle Texas be wading. The theory is that during lapping over our waders while trying to on Lake Calcasieu in Southwest, La. was coast. That’s where you can find clear cold water periods, like late winter and maintain our balance in the gumbo-like after a bunch of Texas anglers went over water flats and island shorelines that go early spring, mud holds more warmth mud. But you know what, it was all good there, jumped out of the boat and started for miles. Because of the water clarity at and therefore provides warmer water for as we pulled heavy stringers of trout into catching lots of big trout. Port O’Connor wading is the way to catch fish to feed in. So it stands to reason that Plaag’s boat. Nobody complained. I lived in Beaumont for 23 years, and more fish. Drifting the flats in a boat will wading a soft mud shoreline or reef is the On the Laguna Madre wading is the rarely saw anybody wading on Sabine usually spook wary trout and reds. way to stay on more trout and reds. name of the game. It’s how about 99.9 Lake. That is until the word spread about On the other hand, wading on Sabine Last March I was on a wade fishing trip percent of the fish are caught. I do a lot Sabine’s big trout being caught. Next Lake will not normally produce more fish with Lowrey. I met him and some clients of fishing on the middle Laguna Madre thing you know the Galveston guides, like than wading. That’s because the water is on Baffin Bay for a three day run. I knew out of Getaway Adventures Lodge. A lot Dwayne Lowery, were bringing their wade deeper, and tea colored – therefore the fish it was going to be torture – wading over of the bottom along the shoreline is firm fishing customers to Sabine and promptly aren’t so spooky. After a number of years some very soft mud. Nothing is worse sand. But once you venture out in guts began stringing up arm length trout, and of wading on Sabine I can say for sure than when a guide says the bottom you’re and flats off the Intracoastal Canal you lots of reds. that the bottom is almost all firm mud about to fish might be a little soft. can get into some pretty soft mud. The “I grew up wade fishing on Trinity Bay and loaded with holes, about the size of That usually translates into knee-deep best wading here is over hard sand and and on East Galveston Bay,” says Lowrey. a cooler, that can definitely trip you up. muck. But Baffin is special – it’s where grass in about knee deep water – when “I just assumed that we could wade fish Also, there is a pretty good population some of the heaviest trout are caught the fish are there. But if the action is over anywhere there were trout and reds to of big gators on Sabine. Other than that each spring. And it’s also where you mud in deeper water the comfort zone be caught. I heard about the big trout it’s all good. wade in mud and rock formations that is shot to hell. But that’s the only option on Sabine. On my first wade fishing trip “I’ve caught some good stringers of can be treacherous. On this particular much of the time. there we caught a load of big trout. The trout while wading Sabine,” says longtime trip one guy got stuck in the mud, fell Wet wading during the warm water locals didn’t like that too much, but that’s guide Jerry Norris. “But on a day to day over forward, shredded his waders and months is totally different than winter another story. basis I’ll catch more fish by making long cut his knee. But hey, it’s all in the name wades. It’s comfortable warm water, and Then I heard about some heavy trout drifts over isolated reefs in my boat.” of catching a career trout – go figure. most of the time we’ll be wading on hard being caught on Calcasieu, so we loaded To be sure, wade fishermen are a We patched the guy up, got him some sand or slightly soft mud. Regardless of up and headed over there. Sure enough we different breed. It’s a way to escape. It’s dry clothes and waders and went back where you wade the main thing is to be started catching some very nice trout, and just you and the fish. But not all wade to fishing. comfortable. lots of them. Next thing you know there fishing is the same. The bottom in one One of the best and worst fishing days The best way to do that is to wear are wade fishermen everywhere on both area might be hard sand and grass. That’s of my life was along the south shoreline comfortable waders and boots. My Sabine and Calcasieu.” easy wading, and what is preferred by of West Galveston Bay. I was with guide recommendation is to go with quality

42 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 43 waders. I’ve used Simm’s stocking foot late spring and early fall, and come with a and long sleeved shirt to prevent jellyfish A quick release stringer waders for years. They are lightweight, waterproof pouch for a phone and wallet. stings. A Styrofoam hat was used for shade comes in handy, as well. A dependable, tough and comfortable. The boots protect against rays which is and hanging lures. A pair of high top landing net is an option a lot When combined with Foreverlast Ray very important. Also, they can be worn Converse tennis shoes were our wading of anglers forego, until they Guard Wading boots I’m good to go. This with or without waders. boots. And a stringer was looped around lose a big trout at hand. The combination of waders and boots can be I first began wading in the surf at a belt loop. That was the outfit for wading G2 wading belt is packaged worn year round. My waders fold down Freeport and Galveston back in the 60’s. anywhere along the coast. with all the tools you need. to waist high for cooler wading during The standard gear was a pair of long pants Wading gear has improved big time Just add your favorite lures over the past couple of decades. Some of and you are set to get wet. that gear includes wading belts with back Ray proof wading boots support, floating nets, easy access lure are a must. It takes the worry boxes and storage for things like pliers, out of stepping on a stingray, a stringer and a bottle of water. The one which is a real possibility on thing you want to keep in mind is to every step. I was with a guy minimize bulk. last fall that stepped on one You want to be able to move around just as he was getting in the freely, with gear that functions and boat. provides easy access to lures, a stringer Wading is a hoot when it’s and pliers. done right. The key is gearing One of the best all-around wading up for comfort. And at the belts is the Foreverlast G2. It’s got all end of the day when you sling the essentials for wading, including a a stringer of trout and reds removable back support system. Once into the boat that’s when it you put this belt on you are ready to fish all comes together. in comfort. For more information on One of the most important things you wade fishing give me a call Photo by Bill L. Olson Jr. Sometimes wade fishing can take an angler into deeper water, or it could simply be a hole. In need on a wade fishing belt is a good pair at (409) 782-6796, or text This angler fishing the beachfront is equipped like anglers from years gone by with long pants, a styrofoam hat the winter that creates a chilly situation, while in the summer it can just be a refreshing dip. of pliers that are easily accessible. [email protected]. for shade and to hold lures, and Converse tennis shoes.

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44 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 45 JUST HANDGUNNING | Mike Holmes discussions and descriptions on several Another wood “type” websites to help distinguish among these, to look for is any sort of Getting A Handle on Handgun Grips including the Ruger Owners Forum, burl, which is a formation and an even more detailed discussion in the wood found in can be found on www.gunblast.com/ oak, mesquite, and other Hamm_Ruger-SA-GripFrames.htm. Grip woods that results in Having grips – or “stocks” as some since they will probably panels are not interchangeable between very attractive grain and call them – on your handgun that fit both have examples of various grip frame types, but just about any Ruger patterns. your hand and the gun’s grip frame is very grip frames on hand to grip frame can be fitted to any Ruger Some custom grip critical to getting optimum performance work with and even if the revolver type, if you don’t have the grip makers will fashion grips from a given gun, whether revolver or final user has to do a bit of you really want. from customer supplied pistol. A good fit increases the comfort close fitting to get it exactly In materials, natural wood is likely the material, others prefer not level when firing heavy recoiling guns, the way he wants it, this is most common and most popular – which to as the customer often and is conductive to better accuracy from not an especially difficult are not necessarily the same thing. Walnut has an unrealistic vision These walnut finger grip panels from Badger work well on the any gun. endeavor. has always been a staple of the long-gun of what his piece of wood Super Blackhawk’s squared back trigger guard. There are also differences in grip There are some very stock industry, and it is also often used might be when finished. materials that factor in. Some woods “famous” grip makers who for handgun stocks. Rosewood is also a I asked Carl Shultz of Private’s Custom did. The grips are almost white, with just a are stronger than others, and natural charge famous-level prices common grip material, with companies Grips (privatescustomgrips.com) to make bit of a yellowish tint. The Holly has some materials like antler, bone, and ivory and have very long return 1911’s deserve nice grip panels, too. These are mesquite Burl, such as Ruger using it for some of their a set for me out of a piece of Lacewood figure, but it is rather subtle, and does not can “last” virtually forever. There are times on their work, I have by Lone Start Custom Grips factory grips. Both of these woods can be that are by far my favorite grips. I already jump out at you like my Lacewood. Zane also some synthetic materials that make dealt with three or four good grip guys There is no doubt, though, that cushioned very good-looking, and very serviceable. had some Lacewood grips on my Ruger assures me it will yellow a bit more as it very nice and serviceable grips. Nothing who are within my budget and have not rubber grips do absorb at least some For Texans, Mesquite makes a good Bisley made by Badger Custom Grips ages, and continue to look very much dresses up a gun more than nice grips been unhappy with any of their work. recoil. On my .480 Ruger Super Redhawk grip material, as it is strong and can be (badgercustomgrips.com) that I like a lot. like elephant ivory. More exotic woods – and they can be had for prices within Besides the fit and material, grip style double action revolver, I swapped the very attractive. It also might be very Lacewood has a scale type pattern are available, such as African Ebony, reach of most of us, and we can install can be a factor in how the gun handles – Hogue rubber monogrip that came on the appropriate on what is sometimes called within the wood that can result in Zebrawood, and Ironwood. them ourselves. especially when heavy recoil is involved. gun for a Hogue Tamer grip, which has a “BBQ Gun.” iridescent, almost holographic looks that A nice looking handgun is only made Fit to the gun is obvious and shows Using Ruger single action revolvers as an an added silicon strip inside to soak up There are two techniques used in are very lovely and distinctive. It is actually better with nice looking – and fitting up most easily. If the grip panel has sharp example because they are so common so even more recoil. The Redhawk and Super making grips from various woods to fashioned from several wood types, with grips. edges protruding beyond the frame – many “custom” revolvers are based on the Redhawk use the same grip system as the both enhance appearance and durability. the apparent formation a result of how or fails to cover up edges on the grip basic Ruger frame and/or design, early Ruger GP-100 double action revolver, with Spalting is a method that lets wood begin the wood is originally sawn from the log. Texas-Made Leather Holsters frame – it will not be very comfortable to on we find there are several grip styles a sort of shaft the grip slips onto. This to almost decompose, resulting in colors I had a small piece of Lacewood that had shoot. When describing the advantages available. results in an almost wrap-around grip, and patterns far beyond what nature been part of the instrument panel trim Handgunners looking for a quality of custom grips over factory offerings, The Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk with no open back-strap or seam down originally intended. Spalted wood is then on my treasured 31 Bertram, and was holster should visit Porter Texas based Hamilton Bowen in his book “The are commonly fitted with what enthusiasts the middle. usually stabilized. Stabilizing involves one of the few things I was able to salvage Tucker & Byrd Holsters. Whether a hol- Custom Revolver”, maintains that most refer to as the “plow handle” grip frame. Many very experienced revolver heating the wood in a vacuum oven to after Hurricane Ike – and the insurance ster for your carry weapon or a custom grip panels that come on factory revolvers This type has more of a curved front and shooters feel the Bisley grip frame is the get it absolutely dry, then infusing the company – took the boat from me. The made leather hunting holster they make are “lovingly fitted - with a screwdriver.” back, and was supposedly designed to very best for handling recoil. To again wood with a resin that adds substance pattern in this wood was exceptional, and some of the best at very affordable prices. To get a really good fit, grip makers allow the revolver to “roll back” in the reference Hamilton Bowen, he stated that and renders it practically indestructible. Carl fashioned it into a set of grips that Tucker & Byrd also makes leather like to have the entire gun, or at least the hand under recoil. The longer barreled most of the really “big” revolver cartridges The final step, of course, is a finish of can not possibly be reproduced with wood gun belts, rifle slings, waterfowl/game- grip frame to work with – since not all Super Blackhawks - 7 ½” or more - have a like the .475 and .500 Linebaughs would either the true-oil type or a urethane of on the market today — plus there is the bird straps, shell bags/pouches and guns even of the same model from the squared off back to the trigger guard that not be practical to shoot with any other some sort. Spalting makes beautiful grips added sentimental value. more. Their products are made in Texas. same maker will measure out exactly the can be painful to the shooter’s knuckles grip style. The Ruger Bisley is a refinement out of some unlikely woods. I have a set My most recent revolver acquisition Visit them at www.tuckerandbyrd.com same. Most grip makers can get very close in .44 magnum or larger calibers with of a Colt design that was in turn a of spalted maple that are among my very was a Ruger Flat-top Blackhawk in .44 or call (855) Gun Belt. without using your grip frame, however, heavy loads. Many after market grips for modification of a target style grip frame favorites. Special. When I found this gun it was the Super Blackhawk, both of originated in England. It features an wearing white plastic Faux ivory wood and rubber, have a shape almost vertical drop in both front and grips which actually fit very well that “fills in” the area behind back that is said to change the angle of and were attractive against the the trigger guard to make the recoil impulse and let it push straight very dark Ruger bluing. I wanted shooting more comfortable. back into the hand, and thus the arm and to replace them with a natural These sometimes have finger shoulders – instead of rolling up like the grip material, but decided I grooves, which many singe- plow handle type. liked the light color. Not really action fanciers do not care for There is almost no more confusing wanting to spend more for grips – but I find them helpful on the subject than Ruger single action grip than I had invested in the gun, I set I have. frames. We have the XR3, the XR3-RED ruled out any sort of ivory. Personally, I do not really (redesigned), and the Bisley thrown among Zane Thompson, of Lone Star care for most rubber grips. One the Blackhawk, Super Blackhawk, Flat-top Custom Grips, in Johnson City, The Texas Woody Elite model, shown in popular brand seems to have a Blackhawk, Old Model Blackhawk, New Texas, (lonestarcustomgrips. alligator and elephant leather is also available in the buyer’s choice of exotic Lacewood by Privates Custom Grips, from wood the seam down the middle on the Model Blackhawk, Old Model Vaquero, Lacewood by Privates Custom Grips, from wood the com ) suggested white American leathers. Easy on-easy off. author supplied. palm swell that I find painful. and New Model Vaquero. There are author supplied. Holly, and I am very grateful he

46 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 47 to Ron Smith, who heads up TPWD’s perceived as a huge deal in the mind of records program. a young angler. In some cases, it could Reeling in a That wasn’t the case under the even be the catalyst that sparks a lifetime program’s former protocol, which interest in the sport. required that potential state and water In a nutshell, the state ARP is just what body record fish be verified, in person, by the names implies. It’s all about giving a state game warden or another qualified credit where credit is due. TPWD employee. According to Smith, Anglers can earn awards at a variety of the change was implemented back in levels. TPWD maintains state and water the late 2000s by former records keeper body records for just about every species RECORD Joedy Gray. of fish (game and non-game) known to Paris, who weighed his fish on an bite a hook. These are considered “high uncertified scale and then released it, says level awards” and typically require more he thinks the current system leaves the documentation than lesser awards. door open for dishonest anglers to claim There are state and water body weight weight records for fish that aren’t as heavy records in a variety of categories such as they claim. as rod and reel, fly fishing, bow fishing, “I think there should be some all-tackle, all ages and junior in public restrictive stipulations, especially when and private waters, alike. Additionally, you start talking about state record and there are state and water body “catch and water body class fish,” Paris said. “I don’t release” records for public waters by rod understand how a fish could be called a and reel and fly fishing in two categories, record unless it is verified by somebody all ages and junior angler. who knows what they are doing. That’s According to Smith, anglers who the only way to keep everything on the catch a potential state or water body up and up.” record should provide as much photo It’s sad to think that somebody might documentation of the fish as possible. attempt to cheat just to lay claim to a This helps biologists verify the species, fishing record, but it happens. In fact, which can sometimes be a problem for the Smith says he could recall two instances angling public when dealing with certain since he has been overseeing the ARP types of fish. that anglers been caught fudging in the application process. Both were banned from participating in the records program in the future. “If we find out somebody has done something that isn’t right we also turn TPWD Angler Recognition Program is giving credit where credit is due. it over to our game wardens so they can Story and photography by educate them,” Smith said. Not everyone feels the same way about Matt Williams TPWD’s records program that Paris does. Smith says the program fields between 1,200-1,500 applications each year. “The applications aren’t just for state and water body records,” he said. “That eteran Lake Fork fishing guide fighting that it was a catfish and not a bass. Department’s website. state and water body record fish. includes applications for all the different Gary Paris was competing in a Catfish do a lot twisting and rolling and Turns out Paris’ channel cat was Under current protocol, all an angler categories that we have. There are a bunch Vteam bass tournament at Lake you can see your line jumping around roughly 7 1/2 pounds heavier than the needs to claim a state or water body record of them.” Welsh last December when he reeled in everywhere. Bass don’t do that.” current All-Tackle lake record that has for most freshwater fish is photographic And while some of the categories may whopper of a channel cat. Paris claims the fish weighed 10 been in place at Welsh for 13 years. evidence, proof the fish was weighed on seem insignificant to some, they can be It’s not that uncommon to catch pounds on a Boga-Grip scale. The angler Paris probably could have been a certified scale and an application form especially meaningful in the eyes of others. channel cat on artificial lures. They will didn’t get a length measurement on the big successful in having the fish certified as a signed by a disinterested party who was Take the five-year old who lands his or her readily hit spinnerbaits, Chatterbaits, cat before he released it, but judging from new all-tackle and catch and release water present when the fish was weighed. State first bass. Or the junior angler who reels crankbaits and other lures they mistake the picture it looks to be close to 30 inches. body record for Welsh in Texas Parks & record applications must be notarized. in a 15 inch sand bass. for an easy meal. The fat cat Paris caught Curious to learn how the fish stacked Wildlife’s Angler Recognition Program, If a scale isn’t certified at the time of Both would be eligible for a frameable Courtesy Photo gobbled up a Zoom Fluke. up against the current water body record but he chose not to pursue it. weighing, it can be certified afterwards certificate under the ARP’s First Fish Josh Helmstetler of Big Spring with his new “I’ve caught a bunch of them while for channel cat, Paris’ fishing partner, The reason? Paris says he thinks the provided it is done within 30 days of the Award and Big Fish Award categories, state record spotted bass caught from Lake bass fishing over the years,” Paris said. David Fanning, accessed the records TPWD records program is too lax in its weighing. If the scale checks out to be respectfully. Alan Henry in January. The fish weighed 5.93 “I could tell right away by the way it was list on the Texas Parks and Wildlife eligibility requirements, especially for accurate, everything is good, according Receiving such a certificate could be pounds.

48 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 49 If applying for a weight record, the fish Helmstetler hauled some species have never been filled. In Angler Award. This is a must be weighed on a scale that has been the fish 45 miles other cases, old records remain in place one-time award given certified for accuracy. If the scale is not where he found simply because anglers who have caught to fishermen who catch certified at the time the fish is weighed, the certified scales at the significantly bigger fish chose not to have trophy class fish of five angler has 30 days to have the accuracy of Klemke’s Sausage their catch certified for one reason or different species. the scale verified. Haus in Slaton. The another. “There are a lot records that are Elite Angler Additionally, the weighing must be spotted bass weighed just waiting to be set,” said Smith. eligibility hinges on witnessed by one or more disinterested 5.98 pounds on those And there are probably even more the angler earning five parties. As earlier mentioned, the scales, topping the angler recognition certificates just waiting freshwater or saltwater application must be signed and notarized former Texas state to be earned in a wide variety of ways that Big Fish Awards. for all state records. record of 5.63 many anglers may not even be aware of. The Big Fish Awards Occasionally, the application process pounds that was set As earlier mentioned, the ARP awards are based strictly on can be somewhat stressful, particularly at Alan Henry in certificates in a number of categories length, and the bars are when a potential record class fish is caught 2011. other than state and water body catch and set pretty high, as they from a water body in a remote location by After weighing release and weight divisions. should be. an angler who isn’t fully aware of the ins the fish, Helmsteler One of the most popular with To learn more about and outs of the process. then transported beginning and youth anglers is the First the TPWD Angler Just ask Josh Helmstetler of Big Spring. the fish back to Fish Award. This award is intended Recognition Program On January 9, Helmstetler reeled in Alan Henry and commemorate an angler’s first fish, as well as state and a giant spotted bass from Lake Henry in released it. “It was regardless of age. water body records the Texas Panhandle. Helmstetler, who a long, frustrating Another popular award is the for a variety of species was fishing a club bass tournament at the afternoon,” he Outstanding Angler Award. This award on your home waters, time, said the fish weighed 6.26 pounds said. “Every time I is available for the angler whose catch see tpwd.texas.gov/ on uncertified scales at the club weigh-in, weighed the fish it Courtesy Photo doesn’t meet the requirements of other fishboat/fish/programs/ and that was after it had regurgitated four lost weight. It was 8 Jesse Roberson of Goldthwaite (right) was only nine-years-old award categories, but still deserves some fishrecords/. Courtesy Photo 2 1/2 inch shad. p.m. before we got it when the reeled in a man-size bass from a 40-acre private lake recognition. And remember, Gary Paris of Quitman caught a 10-pound channel cat at Lake Unaware TPWD’s protocol for state back in the lake, but near his home in Mills County. At 15.54 pounds, the Roberson bass One of the more highly regarded ARP records are meant to be Welsh last fall that would have crushed the current lake record for and water body records had changed, the she was very lively ranks No. 42 heaviest Texas of all-time and is the heaviest bass ever awards an angler can earn is the Elite broken. that species, but he chose not to pursue the title. angler spent the next five hours hunting and in great shape. documented by a youth angler. down a game warden to verify his fish and I think she’ll make looking for certified scale to document the it just fine.’” the fish so it can be genetically tested. The weight, when in reality it wasn’t necessary. Smith pointed out that anglers who testing is done to determine whether or Following weigh-in, he took it to a catch potential record class spotted bass, not the fish has crossbred with another nearby bait shop where it weighed 6.05 Guadalupe bass, yellow bass and certain sub-species. pounds, but the certification on the scales species of gar from certain lakes are Smith referred to the aforementioned had not been updated in two years. required to carry the verification process species as “high hybridizing” species. He Check back often for the latest outdoor news Eager to get a certified weight, a step farther by obtaining a fin clip of said there are certain waters within the from across Texas, the United States, and around the world. state where the incidence of hybridizing is high. • Stay informed in between issues “We know there are certain waters • Latest outdoor updates and news where this occurs pretty frequently,” he said. “We typically require a fin clip for • Links to all your favorite resources genetic testing for high level state and • Information for hunters and anglers water body records on these fish. If a fish is • Tide Tables released without a fin clip on one of these • Hunting & Fishing times waters, we give hybrid awards.” • Read issues online for subscribers Smith added that Alan Henry is not a lake where spotted bass are known to • And much, much more! hybridize. Plus, biologists were able to positively identify the fish as an Alabama spotted bass by looking at the photos Stay OUTDOORS informed! Helmstetler provided, so there was no need for genetic testing. The lake was stocked with 150 adult Alabama spotted Follow us on Facebook! bass in 1996. Texas Outdoors Journal As difficult as it might sound, becoming Updates, News, Giveaways and More, Courtesy Photo a record buster may not be near as tall a delivered straight to your newsfeed! Bryan Barclay with the Texas state record swordfish caught from the Gulf of Mexico in 2013. The hurdle to leap as you might think. fish weighed 493 pounds. On some lakes, water body records for 50 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 51 Harvesting a spring gobbler with a shotgun is certainly exhilarating, however, the rewards from taking one POP UP ON with stick and string are indescribable. Spring Gobblers

Story and photography by Nate Skinner

he piercing gobble cut me off indescribable. halfway through my cadence of The single most important piece of Tyelps resonating from the slate equipment in an archer’s pursuit of spring call. The old long-beard gobbler roared turkeys is a pop-up style ground blind. a response that screamed, “Ready or not, “A ground blind,” some may question. here I come!” “Don’t turkeys have excellent eyesight? Either I had magically learned to Won’t they spook from a new and speak “turkey” or was just plain lucky. No large inanimate object placed in their sooner had I heard him than the boss bird environment?” appeared — seemingly out of nowhere Turkeys do have exceptional eyesight like a ghost from the brush. As he sprinted and is what makes the blind a necessity into the decoys I hunkered down in the for a bowhunter. The blind conceals the pop up blind concealing my presence, hunter’s silhouette, allowing him or her little room for rational decision-making. movement to be made by the archer, it also bow range. There are many decoys on Adding a jake decoy into the mix can flipped the video camera on record, and to get away with the movement needed to When a gobbler is “hot to trot” and allows for more movement in general by the market today and their appearance be a deadly trick on mature gobblers. reached for my bow. This was “chasing draw a bow. This would be very difficult responding to a call, his body language as anyone present on the hunt. pretty much goes hand in hand with the With the presence of the jake and a couple thunder” at its finest. if a hunter was fully exposed, relying on he approaches “tells all” — he cares little This presents hunters with an old adage, “You get what you pay for.” of hens, Toms coming into a call will often Bow hunting spring turkeys adds camouflage clothing to hide his or her about the camouflage tent he’s heading opportunity to share the hunt with friends Dave Smith Decoys (DSD) makes put on a magnificent show of testosterone excitement to an already thrilling presence. towards. or loved ones. some of the most realistic decoys money while attempting to claim their hens and sport. The close encounters with these What advantage turkeys do possess There are several pop-up blinds on the A ground blind also gives hunters can buy. These fakes are lightweight, territory. Don’t be surprised if the jake emotional creatures are incredible, and with their vision is completely short- market that can be set up in minutes and enough concealment to film the durable, hand painted, and some models decoy catches a few spurs. there’s definitely something to be said changed and lacking when it comes to provide enough room for a committee. experience with a tripod and video are flocked for added lifelike appearance. Placing decoys at a short distance from about calling a mature Tom into bow brain capacity. A turkey’s brain is about I prefer to use the Double Bull Deluxe camera, so memories can be relived back At the very least hunters should start the blind is key. I prefer to have them at range. This isn’t your granddaddy’s “Run- the size of a walnut, accounting for blind made by Primos. It is lightweight, at camp in high definition. by utilizing a hen decoy or two to help eight to 10 yards in front of me. If a bird n-Gun” style of hunting. Harvesting about two percent of the animal’s body comes with a carrying bag that can be Lifelike decoys are another important coax weary gobblers in close. A feeder comes into the decoys it makes for an a gobbler with a shotgun can be tricky mass. That’s not to say a turkey isn’t a thrown over a shoulder, and is easy to asset in a bowhunter’s turkey arsenal. hen decoy and an upright hen is a good extremely close encounter and provides enough, while the rewards that come smart critter, but it’s easy to see how the quickly pop-up. Sometimes this added visual stimulus combination that gives a set-up a lifelike a close-range shot. from taking one with stick and string are biological urge to procreate may leave Not only does a ground blind allow for seals the deal for a Tom coming within touch. If he stops short of the decoys there’s

52 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 53 wandered back to nesting areas and Toms are left looking for another mate. Shady areas with some brush or tree cover make great midday to mid-afternoon ambush sites. Add a nearby water source to the equation and things start looking pretty good. When a gobbler responds to a call in this situation hunters should get ready to see him approaching in a hurry. Sometimes finding a good location is all about the hens. High traffic corridors that hens travel daily are sure to have Toms lurking nearby. When it comes time to take the shot the vitals of a turkey are positioned a lot further back than some realize They are actually located near the rear of the bird, making the kill zone on a turkey extremely High traffic corridors where hens travel daily are good locations to find Toms lurking nearby. small. A jake decoy will often bring in mature gobblers that will then put on an impressive show. Bow hunters are forced to either make his back is the best bet if he is facing away A gobbler is a creature that wears bow range, the mere close encounter a precise body shot or choose to shoot at with his feathers tucked. A well placed his heart right on his sleeve. From provides an adrenaline rush like no other. a good chance he might still be in bow easier. the head or neck area of the bird. The head shot will bring down a turkey nearly the changing color of his head to his Hunters making the harvest with stick and range. Decoys placed further out could Once the roost is located hunters best body shot on a broadside gobbler is every time. handsome display of fanned out tail string will quickly learn they’ve found prevent spooky birds from getting close should plan to sneak into a field adjacent at the top of his thighs, while the middle feathers when in full strut, an old tom’s their newest addiction. enough to let an arrow fly. to the roosting area before sunrise. If of the beard is the optimum area to aim emotions seemingly unfold within a Thank God it’s springtime. Landscapes The ground blind aspect of bow hunters do not have the morning available on a bird facing head on. If the turkey’s Broadheads for the hunters’ lap and is what defines spring across Texas are putting on their colorful hunting turkeys does take some mobility to spend in the field, they should plan to back is to the hunter and his tail feathers Turkey Hunter turkey hunts. When it all comes together “Sunday best,” and so are Rio Grande away from the hands of hunters. Because set up in an area very close to the roosting are spread, a shot through the anus will Archers planning to take a turkey and a boss bird struts and drums to within turkey. of this it’s very important to set up in an location in the evening and try to catch the reach the vitals. in a head and neck area need to use an optimal location. Moving isn’t as easy as birds heading to roost. A shot straight through the middle of extremely sharp, cut-on-contact fixed- standing up and walking to a new area. Midday to blade broadhead with a wide cutting 30 Years experience in TrophY Deer ManagMenT Knowing where the roost is located is the mid-afternoon diameter. The 125 grain Magnus Bull- best way to find a prime location. hunts can often head will get the job done. It has a three Roosting birds can be as simple as be the fastest and and three quarter inch cutting diameter making a few yelp calls or shock calls at most productive and is basically like shooting a propeller dusk from an elevated point on a given during the spring with three razor sharp blades. The size property. The added elevation will help hunting seasons. and weight of this broadhead demands the call resonate and make locating where During this time pairing it with the right arrow. Magnus the gobbling responses are coming from of day hens have packages their 125 grain Bullheads in a kit with .300 spine victory arrows with four, four inch fletchings. For a body shot, hunters preferring to shoot mechanical broadheads should look no further than the X-Treme 100 grain, two blade broadhead produced by Whether you enjoy an Rage. The super sharp blades expand on established program or contact providing a two and three tenths are just starting out, Above: A pop-up blind and a lifelike set inch cutting diameter that’s sure to stop contact Bob Zaiglin, of decoys make up a bowhunter’s turkey any turkey in its tracks. one of the most arsenal. Bowhunters that rely on fixed blade repected names in the broadheads should try making a body wildlife industry at shot on a gobbler with the 100 grain Zaiglin’s Wildlife & Cross Cut manufactured by Red River Resource Managment. Broadheads. Sporting a two and three quarter inch total cut, the Cross Cut Left: Inside a pop-up blind ,the bow hunter flies with the accuracy of a field point has more freedom of movement, and can Bob Zaiglin, Certified Wildlife Biologist more easily draw the bow without fear of the and is perfect for taking down strutting gobbler seeing the movement. Toms. 830.278.8815

54 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 55 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71 Rattlesnake. Try bass, but in the spring, there are better it in bubblegum haunts for whites. We’ve been blessed Lake Roundup color. with abundant rainfall this year, and all Later, we the streams are running, including the motored up the Pedernales River. I expect a near record right-hand side year for white bass harvest, as a result. Any (east) of the stream entering any of the Highland Lakes horseshoe toward should yield a full stringer. the power plant, Whites feed on shad, and river hoping warmer, minnows when they are upstream in the moving water spring. Consequently, live minnows or might just be any lure that resembles shad or minnows the ticket. Water usually works. Use light line (4-8 pound Photo by John Jefferson. temperature test) and small (1/16 or 1/32 oz.) white Two kayakers barely missed an unexpected adventure as they paddled when we left or chartreuse hair or feather jigs, unless into the impact area just before the bubbler went off. Taking advantage the boat ramp fishing with minnows. of the bubbler’s attraction to bait fish, the man on the right prepares to was 51 degrees. But back to the bubbler: Austin Energy cast a net for bait. The temp didn’t guys at the Decker Power Plant tell me it’s one is there, there is a machine that takes move as we approached the barrier. the freshwater release mechanism that credit cards for permits. No generation; no warmer water. The adds Colorado River water to the lake. It With no bubbles to hold us near the thermometer never varied from 51 automatically comes on when the lake By John Jefferson ramp, we headed to the left side (west) of degrees. level drops below constant level. There’s the horseshoe and began fishing the reeds Word has it that a man caught a no set schedule. When it is inactive during I met James Roberts at the Walter E. Photo by John Jefferson. (bulrushes) with plastics. The lake also 10-pounder on Walter Long a day or so rainy periods, the pipe takes on air, and Long Reservoir boat ramp at 7:00 a.m. in Fishing guide, James Roberts, works a lure at sunrise on Walter E. Long Reservoir. has plenty of hydrilla, providing ample before we fished it. Isn’t that the way it that’s what’s bubbling up with the new late January. We had decided to be nice bass habitat. I also threw three new and goes: “Ya shudda been here yesterday!” I river water. Mystery solved. to ourselves and not get there in the dark. Walter E. Long Reservoir is a 1,269- were working, it attracted bait fish, which different Berkley crankbaits to try them wonder if the turbines were generating If you’re looking for a fishing guide, We actually could have slept a little later. acre power plant cooling lake located correspondingly attracted game fish – out. The sun was just rising in a narrow then. The lake record, by the way, is 12.21 James Roberts can be reached at (512) It was just getting gray in the east as just east of Austin. There are no houses particularly largemouths. strip of open sky beneath a heavy cloud pounds, caught in December, 1988. Had 789-1553 or jamesrobertsfishing@yahoo. I pulled in. There was pretty good cloud or boat docks along the lake, nor any My time on Walter E. Long has been bank. The weather forecast said the day it been caught in February or March, com. cover, and sunup wasn’t forecast for about commercial structures except the power limited, choosing to frequent other lakes would be mild and sunny. But when the assuming it was a female another 20 minutes. James Roberts, a plant. There are also no goats, sheep or instead, so I had never heard of the sun ascended into the clouds, we didn’t see and would have been heavy fishing guide who works all Central Texas cattle. Consequently, the water quality is bubbler. James described it as creating it again until just before noon. with egg then, it might have lakes, motored in right on time. excellent, although the water clarity varies lots of bubbles on the surface, as if there After determining that the bass weren’t been a Toyota ShareLunker. Don Gordon, another Cen-Tex fishing from clear to somewhat stained. were a fountain below spewing up air. cranky, I asked James what he was using. Some think the lake still guide, had recommended Roberts, telling Most of the boats on it — except during That sounded interesting, and piqued my It was a GrandeBass Airtale Flash in has a 13-pounder or two me he knew the lake and was a good warm weather and water — are fishing imagination. watermelon, a minnow-like, soft plastic swimming around in it. bass man, even fished tournaments. He boats, so it is less dangerous than on, say, There was a light breeze when we jerkbait. Could this be the year? sounded like the kind of man I wanted to Lake Austin, which is often overloaded launched, just enough to kick up ripples. “The tail has air in it and shimmies as Long Lake also has be with on the water. And Don was right. with skiers and other pleasure boaters. But, to my disappointment, there was no it falls,” he explained. “When it bottoms a healthy population of Lake Long was bubbler. And there sure weren’t schools of out, the tail stands up in a tantalizing hybrid stripers, catfish and originally called bass smacking shad around it. fashion. It’s a good year-around bait.” sunfish. The lake record Decker Lake, but “It (the bubble eruption) doesn’t James says March and April are the hybrid is 8.58 pounds. The the name was happen every time I’m out here,” James top months to bass-fish Long/Decker. But, record blue catfish weighed later changed told me, “and I don’t know whether there he adds that anytime the power plant is in at 59.60 pounds, and the to Walter E. is a schedule for it.” More on this further generating is productive – even in January. biggest flathead scaled 42.13 Long, to honor down. “The 63-degree temperature mark is pounds, and was caught longtime Austin The lake is somewhat horseshoe- what usually triggers the spawn, beginning by my friend and fishing historian and shaped, with the closed end of the shoe on sometime in late February,” he said. “But buddy, Phillip Walker, while business owner... the southeast end near the dam and boat the weather has a lot to do with it. Big flipping the reeds for bass. and the best boss ramp. You get to it by following Loyola bunches of bass move up shallower to Sunfish population I ever had. (off U.S. 183) until it crosses Decker Lane spawn.” is excellent, but I did James had and becomes Decker Lake Rd. In a mile or During the pre-span period, he’ll also have trouble keeping an told me over the so, veer off to the left onto Hog Eye Road. throw a spinner bait to fish feeding before aggressive and persistent phone that there The entrance to the lake is across the road the spawn. He’ll also employ a spinnerbait natrix (diamond-backed was a mysterious to the north from the Hog Eye Bait Shop, during the spawn, dragging it over nests. water snake) from trying Photo by John Jefferson. Photo by John Jefferson. “bubbler” not which is an adventure, itself. There’s an And, of course, he’ll use a lizard near the to eat my grandkids’ perch. James Roberts steers the boat up the warm water discharge The bulrushes and hydrilla in front of them provide excellent habitat for far off the boat entrance booth just inside the lake/park nests the same way. Bass don’t like that. Crappie fishing is just so-so. channel as he works the hydrilla beds with a soft plastic largemouth bass and other species. ramp, and if it fence and the fee is $5 per vehicle. If no James also recommends the GrandeBass The lake has some white jerkbait.

56 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 57 For information on guides mentioned, see Guides, Gear & Getaways on pages 67, 69, & 71

you can usually do just as well on the west locating big trout in March will be on the of ways. side, south of Cullen’s. But, I save that spot western half of the bay. Topwaters and “This month drum will hold in the CoastWatch Danno Wise for when it’s really windy because we have slow-sinking plugs will be the best baits deeper water east of Penascal Point. I a lot more options when it’s calmer. for fishermen targeting trophy trout. will be fishing the bottom with live or “Usually around the second or third Although the fish will be getting more dead shrimp. This is also the same area week of March, we’ll start catching fish active during March, a relatively slow my Baffin Floating Cabin is located. Most casual saltwater anglers believe fishermen view March as a time to catch LOWER COAST right out front of Port Isabel. When the retrieve is still necessary to get consistent Customers fishing from the cabin will March to be the first true fishing month numbers of solid speckled trout and the trout show up out front, we’ll start out action from bigger trout. catch limits of drum during the day and since it is the first truly warm weather winding down of prime trophy trout throwing topwaters for really big trout. Redfish action will also be picking weed through the little trout under the month in Texas. But, most serious season. In many areas along the Middle Then, we’ll back out to a little deeper up in the waters of the Lower Laguna light at night for a limit of keeper trout. and Lower Coasts, water and fish for numbers using either a Madre near Port Mansfield during March. “Once the water temperature begins to there have been a popping cork and shrimp or soft-plastics. Some of the best areas to look for redfish rise I will start fishing Land Cut. I like to good deal of big trout When the fish are out front, it is some of during early spring include Peyton’s and start the morning by throwing topwater being caught so far in the easiest, best fishing of the year. the Saucer. There will also be consistent lures in the sand pockets just past the grass 2016, so March holds “There will also be a lot of sheepshead redfish action along the flats adjacent to line on the edges of the channel. Once the plenty of big trout around the jetties in March. And, there the ICW and gas well channels that criss- sun rises high enough the drop off can be promise. will still be some good snook fishing up cross the shallow flats. seen I will start fishing the drop offs with Of course, the Port Isabel guide Capt. Gencho “JR” the Brownsville Ship Channel. So, we Baffin Bay guide Capt. Justin Cooper a popping cork and live shrimp. When warm weather will Buitureira says March yields a wide variety really have a lot of options this month.” of Capt Carl’s Fishing Adventures said fishing in Land Cut you must find current. also see the return of species from the Lower Laguna Madre, According to the guides at Get-A-Way March will be offering anglers a bit of But, if you have current, you can usually of crowds of casual although being productive day in and day Adventures Lodge in Port Mansfield, variety. catch plenty of fish.” saltwater fishermen out often requires adapting to changing March is still big trout time in the Lower “In March, I will be fishing on the Wind will be the deciding factor for to Texas bays. Most winds and temperatures. Laguna Madre. During the first few weeks south side of Baffin Bay around Penascal when and how Corpus Christi guide Capt. of these anglers will “Wind direction and velocity pretty of the month, the fish will still be holding Point for drum,” said Cooper. “I actually Alan Sifford of Fish On Guide Service be seeking speckled much determines what we’ll be doing over muddy bottom. However, as the prefer to eat drum over trout. When fishes during March. trout, although during March,” said Buitureria. “On calm weather and water warms, fish will slowly cooked the drum will be firmer, allowing “March is windy,” said Sifford. “The down south redfish wind days, I’ll be doing some fishing along begin transitioning to sandy bottoms. you more options to cook it. I like to grill wind is really going to dictate where and will be a prime target the ICW up north. We can usually catch For the most part, the best spots for mine, but you can cook them a variety how we fish. Really, I look at two main while sheepshead quite a few trout there, especially during will offer a nice the early part of March, but you need calm diversion for Coastal wind to fish up there. We don’t have a lot Bend fishermen. of calm days in March, but when we do the Additionally, snook fishing up north can be awesome. action will be heating “Of course, a lot of days in March are up in the Lower pretty windy. Usually when it gets windy, Laguna and the first we’ll fish the color changes south of Gas few tarpon of the Well Flats. When we’re fishing the color In March, Captain Gencho Buitureira Jr. will fish the Brownsville Ship season should begin changes, we’ll use both shrimp under a Channel where snook and a variety of other species await to be making their way up popping cork and soft-plastics. If the color caught. from Mexico. changes on the east side are producing,

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58 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 59 the Land Cut, I’ll be using shrimp for the March offers Aransas area anglers start showing up and many fishermen will many Aransas area trout fishermen will soft-plastic and live shrimp will be the best most part. several options. The black drum run will switch to cut shad as opposed to shrimp. switch to live croaker as their bait of choice. baits to throw. Later in the month, there “March is an excellent month to go be winding down, but there will still be Trout fishing will be fair in early March, I consider that the perfect size for trout should be a supply of bait-size croaker to the Land Cut for full boxes of redfish, a lot of oversize drum up in the Corpus but should get better as the month goes on. bait. Both speckled trout and redfish will readily available as well. Those anglers trout and flounder. Plus, you can pick Christi ship channel. Those fish will be in Early in March, live shrimp under a cork be active in the waters around Rockport who are specifically looking for bigger up quite a few black drum down there. 30-40 feet of water. The best way to catch will be the offering of choice for most trout during March. The fish will still be holding trout should stick with slow-sinking plugs When we’re really in the fish, I’ll use a them is using live shrimp and a 1/2-ounce fishermen. As the water starts warming primarily over soft bottom as the month or topwaters. tandem rig. slip sinker. up, croaker will start moving in. Once the begins. As the weeks pass and the weather The reefs around Rockport will be “On one hook I’ll put a Bass Assassin, The shallow flats will also be holding croaker reach 2 3/4 to 3 ½ inches in size, and water continues to warm, specks holding keeper size specks, as well as on the other I’ll put a live shrimp. At times, schools of black drum. The fish found on and reds will be sheepshead and black drum. Freelining we’ll catch two fish at a time. Again, you the flats are much more likely to be in the transitioning to the shrimp around the deeper reefs should can catch a lot of fish that time of year in keeper class than those found in the ship sandy bottom areas. provide plenty of action with each of these the Land Cut. If you’re just looking to pick channel. Mud patches are usually a dead Early on, the biggest overlooked species. And, don’t be surprised Captain Allen Sifford will key on big speckled up a box fish to eat, that’s probably your give-a-way that a school of drum is in the concentrations of to pick up a scattering of specks and reds trout in March, but he also expects to tangle with some quality slot-sized redfish. best bet.” area. When they are located, the best bet for fish will be around while fishing for sheepshead and drum. tempting black drum is live shrimp either the reefs in four to Port O’Connor fishermen can expect options in March. Most of the time, I’ll free-lined or fished under a popping cork. six feet of water. their local redfish and speckled trout be wading the King Ranch shoreline. But, MIDDLE COAST Beyond black drum, the bays Over the second populations to begin moving back onto the depending on what wind is doing I’ll fish surrounding Aransas Pass and Port half of the month, sand and sand and grass flats as the water the Land Cut for trout, redfish, flounder Aransas will also have a lot of redfish fishing over knee warms during March. Among the better and drum. around. Like the keeper size black drum, to waist-deep sand places for fishermen to spend time will “When I’m wading, I’ll be throwing the redfish will be scattered on the flats. So, and grass flats be in waist deep water in Espiritu Santo Bass Assassins and Corkies. For the most to increase your chances drifting is a better will be where the and Mesquite bays. The guts and channels part, we’ll be catching trout - and some bet than anchoring. Although they will hit majority of quality that criss-cross the shallow grass flats will pretty good ones. But, there will also be plastics and spoons, most fishermen will be Photo courtesy Captain Nathan Beabout. fish will be found. also be holding plenty of speckled trout some small bunches of redfish working throwing live shrimp under a cork for reds Captain Nathan Beabout of Seadrift expects to duplicate or surpass For fishermen and redfish this month, with the adjacent along the shoreline - not a lot, but we will on the flats during the early part of March. the fishing he experienced last March. Beabout is shown with a solid looking for shallows being most productive during the get some from time to time. When I’m in Later in the month, schools of shad will speckled trout. numbers of fish, heat of the day.

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

one with double gold willowleaf blades. shallow. But, the majority of the bigger And, in March, there will still be quite a fish will be spawning in deeper water, SOUTH TEXAS few spawning bass – especially up Coleto because the lake level tends to fluctuate. Creek and in the little creeks that cut off If all you’re catching are little males off Coleto Creek. the bank, the females are on the other “We’ll also start getting a pretty good side of the boat. Turn around and fish the topwater bite going in March. Noisy baits deeper water. like the Frenzy Popper work real good in “Usually, worms, lizards and creatures March. As the water warms up, we’ll have baits work best for our spawning fish a few more fish pushing up shallow, so – something you can drag across their you can get pretty good action along the beds. When you do find some fish in shoreline and around the shallow grass the shallows, spinnerbaits work well for beds. covering water. You can also slow roll the “But, as much as I like throwing a spinnerbaits through the deeper beds and By Danno Wise spinnerbait, my number one bait in March do pretty well. will still be a Power Jerkshad. I’ll use it “Once the black bass get up on their rigged Carolina-style when the fish are beds, it will take some major bad weather March in South Texas means warming deep. If the fish are real shallow, I’ll use to get them off. But, the white bass are a weather and the winding down of the it weightless. little more sensitive to weather conditions. black bass spawn. Although the spawning “Most everybody will be fishing for Both temperature and rain can change activity will be dwindling, there will still black bass, but as the water starts warming things for white bass. Hard rain will affect be great bass fishing action on most South up in March, we’ll have a lot of active the white bass spawn. For the whites to Texas lakes. species around the lake. Catfish will be run, we need a water temperature above In addition, white bass, crappie and real active in March as well. Hybrids will 62 degrees. Then we just need clear water catfish will also be getting much more also be pretty active in March. Although and good flow. That is where a heavy rain active in March, meaning South Texas it is warming up, the hot water discharge could set them back. They need clear fishermen will have a great opportunity to will still be a pretty good place to fish.” water to spawn. If it gets muddy, they catch a mixed bag while spending a spring MEDINA – According to Jim Gallagher will hold off until it clears. Of course, in day on the water. of Jim’s Rebait Tackle, March begins a some recent years, we didn’t have enough COLETO CREEK – According to Victoria two-month stretch of outstanding fishing rain, so they couldn’t reach their normal bass pro Dennis Lala, bass action on on Medina Lake. spawning grounds. But, overall, we’re in Coleto Creek should be hot in March, with “March and April are usually our a lot better shape water-wise. fish in various stages of spawning activity. best fishing months on Medina,” said “Usually, the male white bass will “March should be a real good month,” Gallagher. “Basically, March is an excellent move up in the rivers early in March, but said Lala. “We’ll have all kinds of fish in month and the good fishing generally the females will hold in the lake until the the lake then – post-spawn, spawn, and extends into April. Overall, fishing’s pretty conditions are right. So, until they run, still some pre-spawn. So, this will be the easy for us this time of year, which is kind you can usually find them schooling in month when you can catch fish doing just of unusual on this lake. the lake near the rivers. As long as they about anything. “A lot of that has to do with the fact are in the lake, crankbaits, KT spoons “A lot of people don’t think post- we’ll be having some spawning activity and Rapalas are the best bets. Once the spawn fish will bite, but they will – after going on. The spawn on this lake is always fish start running up the river, switch to they take a little time to get right following later than on other South Texas lake. So inline spinnerbaits and Roadrunners. Of the spawn. After those fish spawn, they long as we don’t get any late season cold course, minnows will work pretty much back off those beds. But, those post-spawn fronts, the black bass should be preparing wherever you find white bass. fish will eat just about anything once they to spawn in early March. By mid-month, “March is usually a pretty good month get straightened out. This time of year, you he says the spawn will have begun on the for crappie fishing as well – so long as you can do real well with a Rattling Frenzy. upper lake and will quickly work down. know where some brush piles are. There You can also do real well by slow-rolling By mid-March, the fish on the upper end are plenty of brushpiles on Medina, but a spinnerbait. should begin to spawn. A week later they they are closely guarded secrets. If you find “I’ll also throw a spinnerbait when should be spawning in the mid-lake and one, there will be plenty of crappie on it. I’m targeting fish on beds. You can drag a week after that the fish in the lower end On Medina, Roadrunners and minnows chartreuse and white spinnerbaits across of the lake should start. are best bets for crappie.” beds and do real well. I like throwing “Sure, you’ll have a few fish spawning CHOKE CANYON – Conversely, on

62 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 63 Choke Canyon, the spawn usually occurs action during March, the most consistent caught around baited holes. a little earlier than other Texas lakes. action will come by trolling plugs or O.H. IVIE — This West Texas lake Therefore, the spawn will be almost over drifting with jigging spoons. seems to be stabilizing around the 45 on Choke Canyon by the time March On the opposite end of the lake, expect feet low mark. This is the range the lake dawns. Given the relatively warm winter the catfish action to be heating up. Good has been in for about a year. With water experienced this year, it is almost assured catches of channel catfish will come from temperatures in the upper 40s to 50 to be the case. along the old river bed as well as in the degrees bass will still be holding around That said, the early portion of March river itself. deeper haunts. will still see some spawning activity on Use electronics to mark structure then Choke. Most of the remaining spawning use either a Texas rig or a jig to thoroughly activity will take place on the lower end WEST TEXAS fish an area. Look for bass to start to of the lake. Anglers should look for make a move up as March begins to give bedded fish along sandy shorelines or way to April. behind hydrilla beds – which will also be BROWNWOOD — Now this is what emerging early due to the warm winter anglers have been looking forward too — weather. a full lake heading into spring. One year In the river and upper portion of the ago Lake Brownwood was over 12 feet low. lake, the fish will already be in a post- As of early February it was a few inches spawn pattern by the beginning of March. over conservation pool. Post-spawn fish on Choke Canyon will be With the additional water look for fish concentrated around mid-depth structure to be deep until conditions begin to warm, (10 to 12 feet). Look for deep grass beds, about the middle of the month. Then they points and channel edges to be holding By TOJ Staff will start to make their way toward new plenty of fish. spawning grounds. Another option for anglers on Choke AMISTAD — This popular border bass The word “NEW” is used because Canyon will be able to locate some producer may not be full, but it is in great many of these fish have never seen water spawning crappie during March. Look as anglers begin to prepare for the arrival covering areas they will deposit eggs this for spawning papermouths to be holding of spring. In March 2013, this lake was summer. tight to shorelines in flooded brush. about 51 feet low. Spinnerbaits to find fish and Texas rigs, Minnows, as well as small jigs and One year later it was about 35 feet low. jigs or Rat-L-Traps will catch the bigger downsized crankbaits, will produce plenty During the third month of 2015 it was sows in deeper water. of slabs this month. only 29 feet low. As of this writing in early FALCON – By March the majority of February “Big Friendly” is 24.80 feet low. Falcon’s largemouth bass will be done That means there is even more vegetation HIGH PLAINS spawning as well. Those that remain on that has been inundated creating more beds this late in the year will most often spawning areas and places for gamefish be found in the far back reaches of the and forage fish fry to hide. coves - way beyond the brushlines. Most More good news is that the high fishermen seeking these fish have to work country in New Mexico is having a their way deep into heavy brush to find record snow fall and their lakes on the them. Rio Grande are in good shape. And if Once found, however, some of these Mexico releases some of its water that is bed sitters can be tempted with creature owed, this lake should continue to see a baits and jumbo worms. Because of the slow increase. extremely dense cover, anglers should rig When it comes to fishing it is about extra heavy - 65 pound test braid, stout water temperature. In March water temps sticks and locked-down drags. are typically either side of 60 degrees. By TOJ Staff Despite a few remaining spawning Look for bass working up the rivers. bass, post-spawn fish will be the primary Buck bass will be shallow staking out ALAN HENRY — In the Panhandle of target on Falcon during March. The bedding areas while the females will hold Texas it has been cold and will remain majority of these fish will be found on in deeper water. bit crisp through the majority of March. the outside edge of the brushline and Spinnerbaits, lipless crankbaits and Look for Lake Alan Henry to see black bass over main lake and secondary points. Chatterbaits will find fish. Jigs and Texas starting to move toward areas to spawn as Spinnerbaits and crankbaits are the best rigged soft plastics will fish an area more the month wanes. search tools for post-spawn fish. thoroughly. Also be on the look out for spotted Down near the dam, anglers looking Look for stripers moving down the bass. There are some interesting accounts for a change of pace can expect consistent rivers toward the main lake. Electronics of some record sized fish elsewhere in action with hybrid stripers. Although or bird activity will point the way. this issue of TOJ that profiles another there will be some surface schooling Catfish will still be deep and can be opportunity for Alan Henry anglers.

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70 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 71 Deadline for the April calendar is March 25, 2016 activities. Take away a fishing fun Foundation fundraiser banquet, Fort or call (800) 792-1112. pack and enter the drawing for door Stockton. For more information call Outdoor Calendar prizes. Equipment and bait pro- (817) 565-7121. MARCH 24, vided or bring your own. No license Austin Chapter Ducks Unlimited necessary. Adults must accompany MARCH 19, fundraiser banquet, Austin. For children. Registration and start time Go Fish, Learn To Fish Event, McKin- more information please call (320) THROUGH MARCH 20, the 180th anniversary of the birth of the Dallas Flyfishers Club will be on is 9:00 a.m. For more information call ney Falls State Park, Austin. Youth, 808-9453. Light Goose Conservation Season, the Republic of Texas. This annual hand to show you how easy and fun (512) 581-0377. adults and families can learn the East Zone (123 counties). For more two-day celebration commemorates it is to tie a fly. This free demonstra- basics of fishing through hands-on MARCH 26, information consult the Texas Out- the 17-day convention that led to tion is open to beginners and novice MARCH 16 – 20, activities while having fun at the Bexar County Chapter Mule Deer doors Annual, or call (800) 792-1112. the signing of the Texas Declaration fly fishers. Equipment and materials 41st Annual Houston Fishing Show, same time! Take away a fishing fun Foundation fundraiser banquet, San of Independence and her political provided, or bring your fly tying tools George R. Brown Convention Center, pack and enter the drawing for door Antonio. For more information call THROUGH MARCH 20, separation from Mexico in 1836. if you have them. For more informa- Houston. For more information and prizes. Equipment and bait pro- (817) 565-7121. Light Goose Conservation Season, The event features live music, food, tion call (972) 618-6714. show times visit www.houstonfish- vided or bring your own. No license West Zone (151 counties). For more traditional crafts, living history pre- ingshow.com. necessary. Adults must accompany MARCH 31, information consult the Texas Out- sentations, and more—all with no MARCH 12, children. Bring sun protection and Centex Chapter Ducks Unlimited doors Annual, or call (800) 792-1112. park entrance or parking fees. Step Kimble County Chapter Mule Deer MARCH 19, water. Registration and start time is fundraiser banquet, Temple. For more back into history to see Texas in Foundation fundraiser banquet, San Augustine Chapter Ducks Un- 9:00 a.m. For more information you information call (254) 289-0121. THROUGH AUGUST 31, 1836 by visiting with reenactors and Roosevelt. For more information call limited fundraiser banquet, San can call (512) 751-5418. Javelina season, South Zone (50 coun- witnessing musket and cannon firing (325) 446-2604. Augustine. For more information call MARCH 31, ties). For more information consult demonstrations. For more informa- (936) 275-3414. MARCH 9-MAY 1, Pearland Chapter Ducks Unlimited the TPWD Outdoor Annual, website, tion call (936) 878-2214, x224. MARCH 12, Spring Turkey Season, South Zone, fundraiser banquet, Pearland. For or call (800) 792-1112. 11th Annual Field Day with “Dr. Deer,” MARCH 19, 54 counties. For more information more information call (281) 300- MARCH 5, Dr. James Kroll. Institue for Whitetail Pecos County Chapter Mule Deer consult the TPWD Outdoor Annual, 2411. MARCH 4, Greater Texas Hill Country Chapter Deer Management and Research Conroe Chapter Ducks Unlimited Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Big Center. Nacogdoches. For more infor- fundraiser banquet, Conroe. For more Game banquet, Fredericksburg. For mation visit www.drdeer.com. 1706 W. Sam Houston Pkwy North, Houston TX 77043 information call (936) 537-1561. more information call (830) 864- Mail your Outdoor 5400. MARCH 12, Calendar items to: Fax: 713.957.3996 Email: [email protected] MARCH 5 - 6, Go Fish, Learn To Fish Event, Buescher Texas Independence Day Celebra- MARCH 5, 12, 19, 26, State Park, Smithville. Youth, adults tion, Washington on the Brazos State Learn to Tie a Fly, Cabela’s on High- and families can learn the basics Historic Site, Washington. Celebrate way 75, Allen. TPWD volunteers from of fishing through fun, hands-on

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72 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 march 2016 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal 73 Tide Tables Fishing & Hunting Times TOP TEN REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE

US TIME ZONES TO TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL MARCH 2016 PACIFIC MOUNTAIN CENTRAL EASTERN < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > < (+) (-) > SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1. On February 28, 2015, TOJ was named for the 17th consecutive year L3:18A 0.0 L4:18A -0.1 L5:18A -0.1 L6:13A -0.2 L7:05A -0.3 H11:59A 0.9 H1:13P 1.0 H2:02P 1.1 H2:38P 1.1 H3:08P 1.1 L3:00P 0.7 L7:34P 0.9 L7:40P 0.9 named one of the top fi shing, hunting & outdoor magazines in Texas. No H5:51P 0.9 H10:51P 1.0 1 2 3 4 5 other major outdoor publication in Texas can equal this level of sustained H12:13A 1.1 H1:24A 1.1 H2:32A 1.2 H3:39A 1.3 H4:49A 1.3 H6:02A 1.3 L12:03A 0.0 L7:54A -0.3 L8:42A -0.3 L9:30A -0.2 L10:17A 0.0 L11:06A 0.2 L11:57A 0.4 H7:21A 1.3 H3:34P 1.1 H4:00P 1.1 H4:24P 1.1 H4:49P 1.0 H5:15P 1.0 H5:41P 1.0 L12:52P 0.7 excellence and recognition. L8:09P 0.8 L8:47P 0.7 L9:31P 0.5 L10:18P 0.3 L11:09P 0.1 H6:08P 1.1 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 L1:03A -0.1 L3:08A -0.2 L4:20A -0.2 L5:38A -0.1 L6:52A -0.1 H12:02A 1.1 H1:19A 1.1 2. A year’s subscription has 12 issues, not something less. H9:46A 1.3 H11:17A 1.3 H12:49P 1.3 H2:06P 1.3 H3:02P 1.3 L7:58A -0.1 L8:54A 0.0 L3:00P 0.9 L4:49P 1.0 L8:25P 1.0 L9:00P 1.0 H3:42P 1.2 H4:11P 1.2 H7:37P 1.1 H8:12P 1.1 H10:32P 1.1 L9:28P 0.9 L9:51P 0.8 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 3. Both fi shing and hunting coverage in every issue. H2:23A 1.1 H3:30A 1.2 H4:12A 1.2 H5:01A 1.2 H5:50A 1.2 H6:40A 1.2 L12:15A 0.3 L9:40A 0.1 L10:19A 0.2 L10:51A 0.3 L11:19A 0.5 L11:46A 0.6 L12:15P 0.7 H7:34A 1.2 H4:32P 1.1 H4:50P 1.1 H5:06P 1.1 H5:22P 1.1 H5:38P 1.1 H5:55P 1.1 L12:47P 0.8 4. Covers Texas like it should be covered with timely reports from L10:10P 0.8 L10:28P 0.7 L10:49P 0.6 L11:13P 0.4 L11:42P 0.4 H6:08P 1.1 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 the fi eld and on the water. L12:50A 0.2 L1:30A 0.2 L2:14A 0.2 L3:06A 0.2 L4:06A 0.2 H8:31A 1.2 H9:36A 1.2 H10:48A 1.3 H12:04P 1.3 H1:11P 1.3 L1:23P 0.9 L2:04P 1.0 L2:57P 1.0 120° 115° 110° 105° 100° 95° 90° 85° 80° 75° H6:14P 1.1 H6:00P 1.1 H5:26P 1.1 5. Proven solunar table of major and minor feeding periods of the day.. 27 28 29 30 31 MARCH 2016 6. Tide table with adjustments for the entire Texas coast. APRIL 2016 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 7. Written by top writers that have etched their names in the record books. L5:14A 0.2 L6:23A 0.2 H2:01P 1.3 H2:37P 1.3 L8:07P 1.1 8. TOJ tells you where to go, what to expect when you get there and 1 2 H12:01A 1.2 H1:34A 1.3 H2:50A 1.4 H4:00A 1.5 H5:07A 1.6 H6:14A 1.7 H7:21A 1.7 how to do it a little bit better. L7:29A 0.2 L8:29A 0.2 L9:25A 0.3 L10:19A 0.5 L11:12A 0.6 L12:06P 0.8 L1:03P 1.0 H3:05P 1.3 H3:30P 1.3 H3:54P 1.3 H4:18P 1.3 H4:42P 1.3 H5:08P 1.3 H5:35P 1.3 L8:18P 1.0 L8:50P 0.8 L9:30P 0.6 L10:13P 0.3 L10:59P 0.1 L11:48P -0.1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9. Covers the Texas outdoors and outdoors interests of Texans. 10. Every cover is a work of art. Times are for Galveston, Galveston Channel ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION 95 TIME DIFFERENCES High Low $ 95 12 MONTHS OF TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL $ Calcasieu Pass, Louisiana -2:14 -1:24 Sabine Pass Lighthouse -1:46 -1:31 18 DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR & AVAILABLE ONLINE 18 Sabine Pass Jetty -1:26 -1:31 Sabine Pass -1:00 -1:15 APRIL 2016 Mesquite Point, Sabine Pass -0:04 -0:25 Yes, I want to receive TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal. Sign me up for: NEW Galveston Bay ent. south jetty -0:39 -1:05 RENEWAL Port Bolivar +0:14 -0:06 $ 95 $ 95 $ 95 Galveston Bay one year 18 two years 29 three years 39 GIFT Texas City, Turning Basin +0:33 +0:41 12 issues 24 issues 36 issues From Eagle Point (1) +3:54 +4:15 ($47.88 on newsstands) ($95.76 on newsstands) ($143.64 on newsstands) Clear Lake(1) +6:05 +6:40 monthly printeD issues incluDeD With these subscriptions Morgan Point (1) +10:21 +5:19 Round Pt.,Trinity Bay (1) +10:39 +5:15 NAME Point Barrow, Trinity Bay +5:48 +4:43 Gilchrist, East Bay +3:16 +4:18 ADDRESS Fish, game and all wildlife move in search of food in cycles relative to the moon’s location to the earth. Jamaica Beach, West Bay +2:38 +3:31 The time spans listed above are the prime times to start each day at and along each time zone meridian CITY STATE ZIP Alligator Point, West Bay +2:39 +2:33 of longitude 75 degrees (Eastern) 90 degrees (Central) 105 degrees (Mountain) and 120 degrees (Pacific) during Standard time and Daylight Saving during the time it is in effect. To determine the feeding cycle Christmas Point, Christmas Bay +2:32 +2:31 time for best fishing and hunting in the area you plan to fish or hunt advance the sum of 4 minutes for PHONE EMAIL ADDRESS Galveston Pleasure Pier -1:06 -1:06 each degree west and back up 4 minutes for each degree east. The next prime feeding cycle (not listed on teXas outDoors Journal Does not rent or sell its mailing list, nor release any information about subscribers. the calendar) will be approximately twelve and one-half hours later. There are minor periods that occur San Luis Pass -0:09 -0:09 between the prime or major periods. The minor periods are typically fair periods and last only about half Freeport Harbor -0:44 -1:02 as long as the prime periods. Payment: Check/MO Enclosed Visa MasterCard American Express Discover Pass Cavallo 0:00 -1:20 Feeding Times by Dan Barnett have been proven by analysis of 124 – 3 day bass tournaments between Aransas Pass -0:03 -1:31 1967 through 1983 to be reliable and accurate in predicting wildlife feeding activity. The Feeding Times Account # Exp. Date are not a cure-all. Weather and other environmental conditions affect wildlife feeding activity. Annual vest Padre Island (South End) -0:24 -1:45 pocket books, which show all the major and minor periods, can be ordered by sending a check or money Port Isabel +1:02 -0:42 order for $19.95 per book. For S&H, please add $4.95 to an order of 1 to 4 books. Make check or money CW2 (3-digit code on back of MC, Visa & Discover; 4-digit code on front of AmEx) Tidal adjustments are not predictable for Port O’Connor, Matagorda Bay; Port order payable to: Feeding Times. Send to: Feeding Times, P.O. Box 2240, Covington, GA 30015. After Oct. Lavaca, Matagorda Bay; and Riviera Beach, Baffin Bay since they are driven by wind 1, please indicate book year. For questions or comments, you can call 404-373-7151. Signature and weather. — NOAA Over 60 Years in Print Feeding Times by Dan Barnett 17 Years Test Proven Mail this completed form to: TEXAS OUTDOORS JOURNAL, 1706 W. Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston TX 77043 Or call 1-800-222-4TOJ (4865) In Houston call 713-957-3997 to charge your subscription by phone. 74 TEXAS OUTDOORS Journal march 2016 Or order SECURELY online at www.texasoutdoorsjournal.com. Please allow 6-8 weeks for your subscription to begin.